The rumour mill is churning at full tilt once again and this time the name on everyone's lips is Micky van de Ven. GoalZaza understands that the 25 ye...
The rumour mill is churning at full tilt once again and this time the name on everyone's lips is Micky van de Ven. GoalZaza understands that the 25 year old Tottenham Hotspur defender has his heart set on a move to Anfield, and he is reportedly ready to turn down a switch to Manchester United without a second thought. For a player of his calibre that is a statement of intent that will sting at Old Trafford.There is no denying that Van de Ven has been nothing short of exceptional since arriving in North London. His recovery pace is arguably the best in the Premier League, a quality that allows Tottenham to play a dangerously high line without being consistently exposed on the break. But the Dutchman offers far more than straight line speed. His reading of the game has improved immeasurably, and his ability to step out of the backline and carry the ball into midfield adds a layer of tactical flexibility that most teams would kill for.So why would a player who is idolised by the Spurs faithful look to force an exit The answer lies in the club's current predicament. Tottenham are fighting for survival, and not the kind that involves Champions League qualification. They are locked in a battle to stay relevant in the upper half of the table, and for a player of Van de Ven's ambition that is simply not enough. When a club like Liverpool comes calling with the promise of challenging for titles and regular European football, the decision becomes an easy one.For Manchester United this represents a significant blow. They are in desperate need of a commanding presence at the back, someone who can organise a defence and offer pace to cover the space left by their adventurous full backs. To see their top target choose their bitter rivals over them is the kind of narrative that writes itself. It will be a tough pill to swallow for the decision makers at Carrington.The prospect of Van de Ven pairing with Virgil van Dijk at Liverpool is a mouthwatering one. Imagine the sheer terror an opposition striker would feel looking up and seeing those two giants bearing down on them. The Reds are rebuilding under Arne Slot, and securing a defender of this ilk would be the cornerstone of a new era. The question now is whether Tottenham's resolve is as strong as their need to keep their best players, or if the lure of a substantial fee will force their hand. For now, the player's mind is made up. The ball is in the club's court.
