Micky van de Ven is being linked with Liverpool this summer; his pace and aggression would complement Virgil van Dijk. For punters, his arrival could shorten Liverpool’s odds on clean sheets and defensive markets, and make backing Liverpool for higher league placement or fewer goals conceded more attractive.
Van de Ven tipped as ideal Van Dijk partner amid Liverpool interest
Tottenham Hotspur centre-back Micky van de Ven has emerged as a summer transfer target for Liverpool, with speculation mounting despite the defender having three-and-a-half years left on his Spurs contract. Spurs are reportedly preparing to discuss an improved deal, but interest from Anfield has not eased.
McAllister: Van de Ven would pair well with Virgil van Dijk
Former Liverpool midfielder Gary McAllister believes Van de Ven could form a “decent combination” with Virgil van Dijk. McAllister argued that Van Dijk still offers immense value despite occasional visible mistakes this season, and praised his ability to recover ground when balls are played in behind.
“Occasionally, he’s been done on the run, going up the sides of the penalty area, but as far as getting into the market it’s depending on what happens with Konaté and whether they sit down and sort out a contract,” McAllister said. He also highlighted Joe Gomez’s injury issues and the scarcity of top-class centre-halves, noting Van de Ven’s pace and goal threat as standout attributes.
Heskey: A difficult but high-quality target
Emile Heskey also backed Van de Ven as a significant signing for Liverpool, describing him as fast, aggressive and capable of covering ground. Heskey cautioned that Spurs may be reluctant to sell their best players, suggesting any transfer would be complex and potentially expensive.
Gerrard praise and Champions League moment
Steven Gerrard singled out Van de Ven’s solo goal against Copenhagen as one of the standout strikes of the Champions League campaign, praising the finish and celebration and underlining the defender’s attacking instincts.
What this means for Liverpool and the transfer market
A move for Van de Ven would address Liverpool’s need for defensive pace and cover, particularly if questions over Konaté’s future and Gomez’s fitness persist. Acquiring a tall, quick centre-back who can contribute goals would also give Liverpool tactical flexibility when pushing higher up the pitch.
Betting angles to consider
If the transfer progresses, expect Liverpool’s odds on clean sheets and conceded-goals markets to shorten. Bettors may also find value in match props (Van de Ven to start or score) and season-long markets such as Liverpool’s top-four or title chances being trimmed by bookmakers as the defence strengthens.
Jeremie Frimpong injury provides latest headache for Liverpool boss Arne Slot
Tottenham Hotspur centre-back Micky van de Ven has been linked with a move to Liverpool during the upcoming summer transfer window
Liverpool Echo
