Liverpool Transfer News: Van de Ven Targeted as Szoboszlai Opens Contract Talks
Morale among Liverpool supporters has noticeably dwindled in recent weeks, with less than two weeks remaining in the January transfer window. The Reds were most recently held to a 1-1 draw by Burnley at Anfield, marking a fourth consecutive stalemate in the Premier League.
Despite manager Arne Slot's side currently riding a 12-match unbeaten streak across all competitions, many performances have flattered to deceive, leading to public disappointment. The unrest from the Anfield faithful was audible at full-time against the Clarets, as boos echoed around the stadium following another missed opportunity to strengthen their position in the Champions League places.
Micky van de Ven Transfer Rumours Intensify
While optimism may be lacking on the pitch, supporters would certainly be buoyed by developments off it. Liverpool are reportedly preparing a substantial £78 million move for Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven, according to emerging transfer speculation.
It has been a dismal season so far for Tottenham, who sit a lowly 14th in the table, with head coach Thomas Frank's position under serious pressure. With just two league wins since November, Spurs have failed to build on their Europa League title-winning campaign, which could have repercussions when attempting to retain their best players.
Since his £43 million transfer from Wolfsburg in 2023, Micky van de Ven has established himself as one of the Premier League's most accomplished defenders. Tottenham's struggles, coupled with Liverpool's perceived need for defensive reinforcements, have resulted in these significant transfer links.
The rumours have been seconded by former Chelsea and Spurs defender Jason Cundy. Speaking on talkSPORT, he insisted the Dutch international is the perfect fit for Liverpool's system. "Here's the thing, if I'm Liverpool I'm going after Van de Ven. That's what I would do, I would absolutely go all out. They lost out on [Marc] Guehi, Van de Ven is the next big thing at centre-half. He's perfect for Liverpool if they want to play a high line. I'm going straight after him," Cundy stated.
Dominik Szoboszlai Confirms Contract Discussions
In further positive news for the club, Dominik Szoboszlai has confirmed that preliminary contract talks are underway to extend the influential midfielder's stay at Anfield. However, the Hungary captain was careful to state that no guarantee exists that a new deal will be finalised.
Arguably Liverpool's standout performer this season, Szoboszlai has been a shining light in what has been a hugely disappointing title defence. He has garnered significant praise for his consistent performances across various midfield positions while developing into a leadership figure at club level.
The 25-year-old signed a five-year deal upon his £60 million move to Anfield in 2023, with the club now keen to reward his considerable development since arriving. When directly questioned about whether talks have commenced over a new contract, he provided a revealing response.
"Of course, but there are always talks. You guys in the media make a lot for the people [the public] and you keep on going because that's your job, but there have been talks. For sure, not any decision has been made. There is always progress, but no decision has been made, and I'll just keep on going every week, every training, giving my best for the team, for the fans," Szoboszlai explained.
He added a note of caution regarding the unpredictable nature of modern football, stating: "Let's see what is going to happen in the future. I am happy here, but you know how football works, and that is something everybody has to take into account."
These dual developments regarding a potential major defensive signing and key contract negotiations offer a glimmer of positivity for Liverpool fans during a period of on-pitch frustration and palpable supporter unrest at Anfield.
