£60m-rated star ready to turn down Man United and join Liverpool – Report

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Anfield Appeal Could Matter

That preference matters. Transfers at this level are rarely decided by sentiment alone, but player desire can shift momentum when negotiations become complex. TeamTalk also report that Van de Ven is ‘a self-confessed Reds supporter’ and, if he were to leave Spurs, ‘would prioritise Anfield above most other destinations’.

Liverpool’s need for defensive reinforcement is clear. Virgil van Dijk remains central to the project, but succession planning is no longer optional. Ibrahima Konate’s long term future has been the subject of repeated speculation, while Joe Gomez has endured familiar fitness concerns over recent seasons.

Van de Ven would not be a cheap solution. TeamTalk state that FSG are ‘extremely keen’ on bringing the Dutch defender to Merseyside, although Roberto De Zerbi’s side value him in the region of £60m-£80m.

That valuation reflects both quality and scarcity. Elite left sided centre backs with Premier League experience are difficult to find, and Tottenham would be under no pressure to sell unless the player pushed for a move or Liverpool made an offer too strong to ignore.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool Transfer Strategy Faces Major Test

For Liverpool, this potential deal would be about more than signing another defender. It would be a statement of intent after a season in which expectations have shifted quickly under Arne Slot.

Slot won the Premier League title in his debut campaign, a remarkable achievement by any measure, but the current picture is more complicated. Liverpool sit 4th despite spending heavily last summer, and another busy window is expected as the club look to refine the squad rather than simply add numbers.

Van de Ven would fit a clear strategic need. He offers speed, aggression, balance and the capacity to defend large spaces, all qualities Liverpool require if they are to maintain an assertive structure. His Premier League adaptation also reduces the uncertainty that often comes with major overseas recruitment.

Manchester United’s presence adds intrigue, but the reported preference for Liverpool gives the Reds an early advantage if interest becomes concrete. The question is whether Liverpool are prepared to test Tottenham’s resolve at a fee approaching the top end of that £60m-£80m range.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool perspective, this is exactly the kind of report that sparks interest because it connects need, profile and ambition. Van de Ven looks like a player built for Anfield. He has the pace to cover behind a high line, the power to handle Premier League forwards and enough composure on the ball to suit a side that wants control from the back.

The fact he would reportedly choose Liverpool over Manchester United ‘without hesitation’ will go down well with supporters, but nobody should pretend this is a simple deal. Tottenham are not easy sellers, and £60m-£80m is serious money, particularly after last summer’s £450m spend.

Still, Liverpool cannot afford hesitation in key areas. If Konate’s future remains uncertain, if Van Dijk needs long term succession planning and if Slot wants defenders capable of sustaining pressure high up the pitch, Van de Ven makes obvious sense.

This summer needs sharper recruitment, not just more recruitment. The squad has talent, but balance has been an issue. A left sided centre back of this calibre would feel like a proper structural signing, the sort that improves the entire team rather than simply adding depth.

For supporters, this report is encouraging because it suggests Liverpool still carry a pull that matters. Now it comes down to whether the club are ready to act decisively.