Liverpool Transfer News: Van de Ven as Konate Replacement 'Lined Up' and $47M Ace 'Could Exit'

Liverpool FC are actively monitoring Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven as a potential replacement for Ibrahima Konate, amid growing fears of the Frenchman's departure to Real Madrid[1][2][3][4][5].

Konate's contract expires this summer, making him eligible for a free transfer, which Liverpool are desperate to avoid. Real Madrid have revived interest after missing out on targets like Marc Guehi (now at Manchester City) and Dayot Upamecano (staying at Bayern Munich). Despite securing young defender Jeremy Jacquet for first-team integration next season, sources insist Liverpool seek an experienced centre-back to fill Konate's elite-level void, with Van de Ven topping the list[2][3][4][5].

The 24-year-old Dutch international, who joined Spurs on a six-year deal for £43m, has impressed with his pace, composure, and Premier League adaptation—ideal for Arne Slot's high-line system. However, Tottenham demand a world-record £100m fee for defenders, more than double his purchase price. A potential swap involving Curtis Jones (valued at over £30m by Transfermarkt) has surfaced, as Spurs show interest despite Jones' desire to stay[1].

Liverpool's defensive planning envisions Virgil van Dijk, Van de Ven, Jacquet, and Giovanni Leoni, with Joe Gomez as utility cover—especially if Gomez exits too. Injuries have exposed vulnerabilities, prompting swift action with the transfer window closing soon[1][4].

Van de Ven has paused contract talks at Spurs, fueling speculation. Liverpool's Dutch connections, including Van Dijk, could aid persuasion, though losing both him and Cristian Romero would hurt Tottenham[4][5]. Meanwhile, separate reports hint at a Real Madrid swap involving Alexis Mac Allister and Aurelien Tchouameni, alongside right-back interest in Denzel Dumfries[2].

This strategic approach under Slot balances youth (Jacquet) with proven quality, preparing for Konate's likely exit while avoiding over-reliance on newcomers[3]. (Word count: 298)