Liverpool are reportedly considering a move for Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven, with Spurs valuing the Dutch centre-back at £100 million. Such a fee would make him the most expensive defender in football history, surpassing the £80 million Manchester United paid for Harry Maguire in 2019.
The Reds are looking to bolster their backline amid uncertainty over the futures of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate, whose contracts expire in 2026 and 2025 respectively. Van de Ven, 24, has impressed since joining Tottenham from Wolfsburg for £43 million in 2023, and speculation suggests he has stalled contract extension talks with the north London club.
To offset the high cost, Liverpool could offer midfielder Curtis Jones as part of a swap deal. Tottenham have previously shown interest in the 24-year-old academy graduate, who has made 28 appearances this season. However, Jones has expressed a desire to remain at Liverpool and captain the club in the future.
Liverpool have been quiet in the January transfer window, with only the £1 million signing of Senegalese youngster Mor Talla Ndiaye. The club recently missed out on Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, who joined Manchester City instead. With the window closing in just over a week, activity may increase as Arne Slot's side seeks to strengthen their squad.
