Manchester United and Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky Van de Ven, as per Football Insider.
The Red Devils currently have Lisandro Martínez and Ayden Heaven as specialist options to deploy in the left centre-back position. Moreover, Harry Maguire can provide cover in this area if needed.
Although Martínez has shown glimpses of his qualities in the Premier League, he has had numerous fitness problems in recent years. Moreover, he has entered the final year of his current contract, meaning his long-term future is currently uncertain at Old Trafford.
On the other hand, Heaven is still very young and needs time to develop. Maguire, meanwhile, has reached the twilight of his career, and his existing deal is also set to run until next summer.
As a result, it appears the Old Trafford club are considering signing a new LCB. Now, Football Insider state that United have earmarked Van de Ven as a top defensive target and could make a move next year.
However, Michael Carrick’s side will have to overcome several obstacles to finalise the operation as Liverpool are also interested in signing him.
On the other hand, Van de Ven has recently signed a new long-term contract with Tottenham until 2031, and Roberto De Zerbi has made him the club captain following Cristian Romero’s departure. So, he doesn’t want to leave Spurs just yet.
Battle
Van de Ven is a 6ft 4in tall left-footed centre-back and can provide cover in the left-back position if needed. He is quick, strong, good in the air, comfortable playing out from the back, and is efficient in defensive contributions.
Since moving to Anfield from Southampton, Virgil Van Dijk has been an undisputed starter in the LCB position for Liverpool. However, he has entered the final few months of his current contract and has reached the twilight of his career.
So, Liverpool also need a new left-sided centre-back. Van de Ven is a Premier League-proven player and is currently at the prime stage of his career.
Therefore, he would be a shrewd acquisition for Man Utd or Liverpool should either club purchase him. However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the Old Trafford club or the Merseyside club eventually manage to secure his services in January or next summer.
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