Liverpool news as Micky van de Ven transfer links emerge and Arne Slot 'option'
Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version from Liverpool.com or go back to LFC Live.
Liverpool IconLiverpool FC NewsFeaturesLiverpool FCLiverpool will be looking to bounce back from recent defeats when it hosts Tottenham at Anfield on Sunday as the Reds aim to secure a Champions League placeMicky van de Ven is believed to be on Liverpool's radar again(Image: Getty Images)Liverpool will be looking to bounce back from its Champions League setback this weekend when it hosts Tottenham at Anfield.The Reds fell to a 1-0 defeat away at Galatasaray on Tuesday in the first leg of their last 16 tie. Arne Slot will now be concentrating on ensuring Liverpool challenges for Champions League qualification to secure its spot in next season's competition.
A damaging loss to relegation-threatened Wolves in its previous league fixture did little to aid its ambitions.While the Reds' campaign has been marked by inconsistency, the reigning Premier League champions have found cause for encouragement through the displays of young winger Rio Ngumoha. In Saturday's Liverpool news, Slot has addressed the 17-year-old's prospects, while the club has been linked with a surprising transfer move.READ MORE: Alan Shearer makes 'messy' prediction for Liverpool vs Tottenham with Paul Merson in agreementREAD MORE: Liverpool injury latest and possible return dates including Alisson amid fresh Alexander Isak updateSlot discusses 'option'Slot has not dismissed the prospect of Ngumoha starting against Spurs at Anfield on Sunday.Ngumoha has featured 18 times for the Reds this season, though he has predominantly been restricted to brief substitute appearances, with his four starts all occurring in the domestic cup competitions.The former Chelsea youngster has caught the eye in outings against Nottingham Forest and West Ham, as well as in the FA Cup victory over Wolves.
Nevertheless, Slot resisted the urge to name Ngumoha in his starting XI against Galatasaray.Arne Slot has spoken about his squad options for this weekend(Image: This Is Anfield)Speaking ahead of the showdown with Spurs, Slot hinted at the young player's participation this weekend, suggesting he is merely one 'option' for the Reds. I said he would get more playing time, and we saw that, so he is an option to start one of the upcoming three games."Premier League rival raidLiverpool is rumored to secure Micky van de Ven for a bargain deal if Tottenham faces relegation this season.Igor Tudor's players are precariously positioned just above the drop zone, and a loss at Anfield will push the London side further into trouble.The Dutch defender has been one of the few highlights for the club this season and, having missed out on Marc Guehi to Man City, the Reds might target him to strengthen their central defense this summer.