Brentford manager Thomas Frank has dropped a major transfer revelation, confirming the Bees' unsuccessful attempt to sign defender Micky van de Ven before his eventual move to Tottenham last summer.
The Danish tactician made the surprising admission during a recent press conference, shedding light on the London club's ambitious pursuit of the Dutch centre-back who instead opted for a £43 million switch to their Premier League rivals.
"We Tried to Get Him" - Frank's Transfer Admission
Frank didn't hold back when discussing Brentford's transfer activities, stating plainly: "We tried to get him. We were close to some players. Micky van de Ven was one we tried to get."
The Brentford boss revealed the extensive scouting work that went into identifying van de Ven as a prime target, highlighting the club's sophisticated recruitment process that has earned them plaudits across the football world.
Why Van de Ven Chose Tottenham Over Brentford
While Frank didn't elaborate on the specific reasons behind van de Ven's decision, the attraction of Champions League football and Tottenham's larger global profile likely played significant roles in the defender's choice.
The 22-year-old has since become a crucial part of Ange Postecoglou's defensive line, making 20 Premier League appearances in his debut season and establishing himself as one of the division's fastest defenders.
Brentford's Transfer Strategy Revealed
Frank's candid comments provide fascinating insight into Brentford's ambitious approach to the transfer market, showing they're willing to compete for top talents despite their relatively modest resources compared to traditional top-six clubs.
The Bees have built a reputation for smart recruitment, with their data-driven approach helping them unearth gems like Ivan Toney and Bryan Mbeumo, but the van de Ven pursuit shows they're also targeting established quality.
What Could Have Been for The Bees
Brentford's defensive struggles this season have been well-documented, with injuries plaguing their backline throughout the campaign. The addition of a player of van de Ven's calibre might have significantly altered their fortunes.
Frank's revelation will leave many Bees fans wondering how different their season might have looked with the Dutch international marshalling their defence instead of facing them as opposition.
The transfer near-miss serves as both a testament to Brentford's ambitious recruitment and a reminder of the competitive challenges facing clubs outside the traditional elite in the Premier League's financial landscape.
