Liverpool miss out on watching top summer target in the flesh

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Liverpool’s plans to scout their top defensive target in person have been derailed following yet another shambolic display from Tottenham. It was expected that Micky van de Ven would be the centre of attention during the massive clash at Anfield next weekend, but a moment of madness against Newcastle has ensured the Dutchman will be watching from the stands instead.Spurs held a 1-0 lead, and the Dutchman displayed some poor judgement in pulling Ismaila Sarr to the ground.

Van de Ven was sent off, and Crystal Palace scored their first of three goals en route to a statement win. Micky van de Ven won’t get Liverpool audition next weekFor Liverpool, who view Van de Ven as the natural heir to Virgil van Dijk’s throne, the suspension is a major missed opportunity to see how the 24-year-old handles the heat of a high-stakes Merseyside atmosphere before they commit to a massive summer outlay.Liverpool host Spurs next Sunday after both sides play their round of 16 first leg, but this red card means he won’t make it onto the pitch.

Reports suggest that Van de Ven is becoming increasingly disillusioned with life in North London as the club continues its winless streak in 2026. If Tottenham continue to spiral, Liverpool may have an even easier time of luring Van de Ven to Merseyside than was initially predicted.