Liverpool are reportedly keeping a close eye on Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven as the Reds begin planning for the future beyond Virgil van Dijk.
The 25-year-old Dutch international has emerged as a potential long-term successor to Van Dijk, with Liverpool believed to be monitoring his situation as they assess their defensive options for the years ahead.
Van de Ven has been admired at Anfield for some time, and it is not difficult to understand why. The Tottenham defender is left-footed, extremely quick, physically powerful and already has considerable experience playing at Premier League level.
His incredible recovery pace could also make him particularly attractive to Liverpool, given the demands of playing with a high defensive line.
🔴 Liverpool keeping Van de Ven on their radar
According to former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown, Liverpool have been aware of Van de Ven for a long time and could consider making a move for him as they eventually look to replace Van Dijk.
Brown told Football Insider that Van de Ven possesses many of the qualities Liverpool would want in their next left-sided centre-back.
The Dutchman has also taken on greater responsibility at Tottenham after being named club captain for the 2026/27 season.
However, his situation could make a potential transfer extremely difficult.
Tottenham recently handed Van de Ven a new five-year contract and have made it clear that they view him as an important part of their long-term plans.
👀 Tottenham hold a strong position
Despite Tottenham’s difficult start to the season, there is currently little reason for Spurs to want to sell their captain.
Van de Ven featured heavily last season, making 45 appearances in all competitions, including 34 Premier League appearances.
His importance to Tottenham has only increased since then, with the club handing him the captaincy and tying him down to a long-term deal.
That means Liverpool would likely have to make a huge financial commitment if they decide to turn their interest into a formal approach.
For the Reds, however, the attraction is obvious.
Van de Ven’s speed would allow him to cover enormous spaces behind the defensive line, while his ability to carry the ball and distribute from the left side could provide Liverpool with another dimension in possession.
At 25, he would also be entering his prime rather than arriving as a young prospect who needs several years of development.
🔥 A potential successor to Van Dijk?
Virgil van Dijk remains one of the most important players in Liverpool’s squad, but with the Dutchman’s contract situation becoming an increasingly important consideration, the club must eventually prepare for life after their captain.
Van de Ven could represent one possible solution.
The biggest question is whether Tottenham would even consider allowing their captain and defensive cornerstone to leave.
Liverpool may therefore continue monitoring the situation rather than making an immediate move.
But if Van de Ven becomes available, the Reds could find themselves seriously interested.
Liverpool have reportedly identified Micky van de Ven as a potential long-term successor to Virgil van Dijk — but convincing Tottenham to sell their captain could be an entirely different challenge. 🔴👀
