Liverpool plotting to 'rescue' Micky van de Ven from Tottenham 'nightmare'
Liverpool are plotting a move to sign Tottenham Hotspur star Micky van de Ven as they put plans in place to strengthen at the back.
Andoni Iraola's side are making long-term plans to sign a new centre-back as they prepare for Virgil van Dijk to leave the club upon the expiry of his contract next summer.
The centre-back's fellow countryman has been high on their list for a long time, and following Tottenham's slow start to the new season, they could try to take advantage.
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Liverpool are big admirers of Van de Ven and believe he could be prised away from Spurs.
Roberto De Zerbi's side are understood to be reluctant to lose their captain, and will demand a significant fee, especially if they are to sell to a Premier League rival.
Van de Ven, however, is believed to be open to a move to Anfield given Tottenham's recent struggles and would welcome the opportunity to discuss terms over a move.
Could Liverpool make a move for Micky van de Ven?
Football Insider revealed in May that Van de Ven has been a leading target for Liverpool in their attempts to land a replacement for Van Dijk in the near future.
The 25-year-old has endured an inconsistent spell with Tottenham and there is a growing feeling he could be tempted to leave despite nothing materialising in the summer.
Liverpool could now be tempted to reignite their interest in 2027, and if Tottenham's Premier League struggles continue, there is a growing feeling a deal could be done.
"Van de Ven is somebody who has been on Liverpool's radar for a long time," Brown told Football Insider.
"He's certainly somebody who would fit the bill when they're looking to replace Van Dijk, because he's left-sided, physically dominant, he's the captain at Tottenham too.
"I do have my concerns because he's been a big part of the Spurs side that has really struggled, but his individual talent is clear, so Liverpool could rescue him from that nightmare.
"He certainly ticks a lot of boxes, and if Tottenham continue to struggle then I expect a move to Liverpool will be appealing for him.
"Obviously, Spurs aren't going to want to lose one of their best players to a Preimer League rival, but they might struggle to keep him if they stay near the bottom of the table."
What is the latest on Virgil van Dijk's future?
Liverpool's putsuit of Van de Ven has come amid ongoing speculation about Van Dijk's future at Anfield and whether he could be allowed to leave in the near future.
The 35-year-old is out of contract in June 2027, but regardless of whether he pens a new deal, there is a growing belief that he will need to be replaced next year.
Brown told Football Insider on 23 September that Liverpool are preparing for life without Van Dijk and have been working hard behind the scenes to identify a replacement.
He remains a crucial part of Iraola's starting XI for now, but concerns about his age and the club's long-term plans mean no decision has been made yet.
It has been suggested that the club are edging towards letting him go, however, adding to the uncertainty and forcing them to prepare for his departure.