Liverpool and Barcelona make approach for Micky van de Ven

Liverpool and Barcelona make approach for Micky van de Ven Liverpool and Barcelona have both made an approach to sign Tottenham Hotspur centre-back Micky van de Ven, according to De Telegraaf . The two sides are aiming to take advantage of the impasse between Van De Ven and Spurs over a contract extension. Liverpool are in the market for a new centre-back following Ibrahima Konate’s departure to Real Madrid . The Reds were linked with Jan Paul van Hecke, but he opted to join Spurs instead. Barcelona also need to bolster their centre-back options. They were previously credited with an interest in Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni . Spurs are not under pressure to sell Van de Ven as he still has three years left on his contract. However, selling him this summer would allow them to make a substantial profit, particularly if he fails to extend his current deal. The north London side have already bolstered their centre-back options by signing Van Hecke and Marcos Senesi , potentially allowing them to listen to offers for Van de Ven. The Netherlands international has emerged as one of the finest centre-backs in the Premier League despite Spurs’ troubles in the last two seasons. He is strong in duels, reads the game well and carries the ball with elegance. He holds the record for longest ball carry ending in a goal in the Champions League history . The Dutch defender also offers an attacking threat, scoring four league goals last term. He has overcome his injury concerns, missing just one game through injury last term, easing doubts over his fitness. Van de Ven’s pace makes him a good fit for Barcelona’s high line. He could form a formidable partnership with young centre-back Pau Cubarsi.