“Knocking on the door” – Liverpool are in the race to sign Premier League defender

For Andoni Iraola, this would be a significant move. Liverpool have already added Victor Munoz from Osasuna, but the possible pursuit of Van de Ven points to a wider rebuild.

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The Dutch defender has been described as “world-class”, and it is easy to see why. His recovery pace, composure and ability to defend large spaces would appear tailor-made for a Liverpool side expected to press high and play with aggression.

Ibrahima Konate’s move to Real Madrid has changed the picture. Jeremy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni may be talented, but neither has played a Premier League minute. That makes Van de Ven a different type of target, proven, powerful and already adjusted to English football.

Contract talks at Tottenham have reportedly stalled, despite the arrival of Roberto De Zerbi. That does not mean Spurs will sell, but it does create uncertainty. Liverpool, as ever, appear ready to explore whether uncertainty can become opportunity.

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Barcelona’s interest complicates matters. Van de Ven would appeal to any elite club that wants speed and security in defence. Liverpool cannot assume they are alone in admiring him.

Yet there is logic here. Iraola needs defenders capable of surviving one v one moments. Van de Ven has that rare blend of athleticism and calm. He does not simply defend danger, he often prevents it from becoming danger at all.

After the Munoz deal and the rejected €100m bid for Yan Diomande, Liverpool’s recruitment has a clear theme. They want speed, intensity and players who can tilt the pitch.

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From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this is exactly the kind of link that gets the imagination moving. Van de Ven feels like the sort of defender Liverpool have missed at times, quick enough to cover chaos, strong enough to dominate duels and comfortable enough to play in a brave back line.

The big issue is price. Tottenham will not willingly lose a player of this profile, especially to another Premier League club. If Barcelona are involved too, Liverpool may need to move quickly or accept that this becomes another expensive, drawn-out chase.

Still, the logic is there. Konate leaving creates a vacancy not only in the squad but in the physical identity of the defence. Jacquet and Leoni may be part of the future, but Iraola needs certainty now. Another issue is the fact Van de Ven is left footed and Van Dijk plays exclusively on that side, will the Spurs wait to succeed the captain or will a right sided defender be more appealing?

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If Liverpool can get Van de Ven, it would feel like more than a signing. It would feel like the back line being built for the football Iraola wants to play.