Micky van de Ven has signalled his preference to join Liverpool if the Netherlands international departs Tottenham Hotspur this summer, with Manchester United ready to pounce only if Spurs suffer Premier League relegation, according to transfer insider Ben Jacobs.
The 23-year-old defender has become one of the most sought-after centre-backs in England despite Tottenham's disappointing campaign. With Spurs facing Everton at home on Sunday in a relegation battle, the club's future in the top flight remains uncertain. West Ham sit just two points behind and can confirm Tottenham's drop if both results favour the Hammers, triggering potential chaos in the transfer market.
Liverpool's Interest Takes Centre Stage
Jacobs revealed that Van de Ven would choose the Merseyside club ahead of other suitors, though Liverpool have not yet formally entered discussions. The defender's focus remains on keeping Tottenham in the Premier League, with his immediate priority avoiding the Championship. Van de Ven clearly enjoys working under manager Roberto De Zerbi and values continuity under the Italian tactician. However, sources suggest the Dutch international would not follow Spurs into the second tier, regardless of managerial ties.
Should Tottenham secure survival, Van de Ven is likely to sign a new contract at the club, closing off any immediate exit route. His current deal still has several years remaining, giving Spurs leverage in negotiations. Former Liverpool winger Jermaine Pennant has publicly endorsed a move for the defender, highlighting the attacking defensive profile that would suit Arne Slot's system.
Manchester United's Conditional Approach
Manchester United's interest hinges entirely on Tottenham's league position. Jacobs stated clearly that the Red Devils will only launch a formal approach if Spurs are relegated, when financial desperation would force the North London club to sell premium assets at reduced fees. This conditional strategy reflects United's preference for players already operating at elite levels rather than venturing into the Championship.
Van de Ven has featured prominently in the Premier League since joining Tottenham, establishing himself as a reliable defender capable of playing both centre-back and left-back roles. His versatility and age—still in his prime development years—make him an attractive prospect for Europe's leading clubs. With Spurs' survival still to be determined, clarity on Van de Ven's future will only emerge once Sunday's fixture against Everton concludes.
