Tottenham centre-half Micky van de Ven is attracting attention and Manchester United are considering a swoop ahead of a return to the Champions League next season
Micky van de Ven is being linked with a Tottenham exit
Micky van de Ven is being linked with a Tottenham exit(Image: Photo by Vince Mignott/MB Media/Getty Images)
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Manchester United are keeping tabs on Tottenham's Micky van de Ven as they consider bolstering their backline ahead of a return to the Champions League.
The Red Devils are set to compete with Europe's elite following a midseason revival, but know that it will place more pressure on their resources. Adding quality to their midfield remains the priority but their defensive line is a mixture of youth and players who have struggled with fitness.
As a result Tottenham's centre-half is being considered, reports the Athletic, but Liverpool too have been keen in the past. The Dutchman's stock has remained high despite his team's well documented struggles, which could end in relegation.
Van de Ven though would not be short of suitors, even if Tottenham remain in the Premier League. His pace is a huge asset, and has been used to cut through United in the past, but the north Londoners have him tied down until 2029.
It means the 25-year-old would by no means come cheap and any move for him may depend on how much cash United can raise from player sales with a number of individuals expected to move on.
Whilst Liverpool have been credited with interest in the past their desire and need to add to their central defensive ranks may have eased with Ibrahima Konate set to sign a new deal. He's poised to continue alongside Virgil van Dijk with Jeremy Jacquet signed already.
Those at Old Trafford remain confident that Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven can form a stellar partnership in years to come. Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez have both struggled with injures and United's number of games is set to increase considerably next season.
Man Utd are planning for a return to the Champions League
Man Utd are planning for a return to the Champions League
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The club's major move this summer will be in central midfield, where they are set to invest heavily. Their signings to address their issues in the final third last summer have proved successful and they will hope that their recruitment decisions again come off with more of a focus put on landing proven Premier League players.
As a result Elliot Anderson is high on their wishlist, but the Nottingham Forest midfield could cost around £100m. Brighton's Carlos Baleba is another name linked with United needing to replace the outgoing Casemiro, as is Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton. Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni is another player on their shortlist.
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