Tottenham Hotspur’s contract negotiations with star defender Micky van de Ven have abruptly hit the brakes.
Initially, club hierarchy had mapped out a clear strategy to sit down with the 25-year-old’s representatives before the season’s end to reward him with a lucrative new package.
However, with Tottenham enduring a catastrophic domestic campaign that has left them dangling dangerously above the Premier League relegation zone, the Dutch international has understandably paused all long-term commitments, according to Football Insider.
Sensing an imminent opportunity, European heavyweights, most notably Liverpool and Barcelona, are maintaining a close interest in the situation.
Liverpool are on the lookout for a new defender
Most notably, Liverpool have been linked with a move for the Dutch defender as they look for a long term replacement of Virgil Van Dijk.
The latest development involving Van de Ven would give them encouragement to make the move for him in the summer transfer window.
Widely praised for his breathtaking recovery pace and dominant physical presence, the left-footed centre-back has frequently worn the captain’s armband this season amidst widespread squad turmoil.
With the club fiercely battling to avoid a disastrous drop to the Championship, Van de Ven has prioritised top-flight survival over boardroom talks.
While the Dutchman’s existing agreement runs until the summer of 2029, giving Tottenham significant theoretical leverage, things could change quickly if Spurs are relegated from the Premier League.
Spurs defender is looking for a move this summer
Insiders indicate that an exit is highly probable if Spurs fail to secure their top-flight status, and could remain on the table even if they survive.
What makes Liverpool’s interest strong is that Arne Slot previously attempted to sign the defender twice during his managerial stints in the Eredivisie.
Securing his signature, however, will require a massive financial outlay. Emerging reports suggest Tottenham would demand a premium fee in the region of £60 million to £80 million to even consider parting ways with their prized asset.
Furthermore, suitors will need to meet hefty personal terms, as Van de Ven is reportedly seeking a wage hike to around £200,000 per week.
Not only Liverpool and Barcelona but Manchester United have also been recently linked with a move for the Dutchman.
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