Manchester United should only consider a move for Micky van de Ven this summer if they first secure a reliable left-back, according to analysis from the Manchester Evening News. The 24-year-old Dutch centre-back has been a long-standing target for United, who see his pace, ball-playing ability and aerial dominance as the ideal profile to partner Lisandro Martínez or Leny Yoro in a high defensive line. However, the consensus is that signing van de Ven without addressing the recurring vulnerability on the left would create an imbalance that opponents could exploit.
Van de Ven has established himself as one of the Premier League's most complete centre-backs since joining Tottenham from Wolfsburg in summer 2023 for £43m. Under Ange Postecoglou, he has started 20 of Spurs' 23 league matches this season, averaging 2.1 interceptions and 1.8 clearances per 90 while completing 89% of his passes. His recovery pace has been particularly valuable in Tottenham's high-pressing system, allowing the back four to step up aggressively. United view him as the long-term successor to Harry Maguire and a natural partner for Martínez, with his left-footedness offering balance in build-up play.
The Left-Back Condition
The primary caveat is United's ongoing left-back situation. Luke Shaw has been restricted to just eight appearances this season due to recurring hamstring issues, while Tyrell Malacia remains sidelined long-term. Diogo Dalot has been covering the left side when required, but his natural preference is right-back and his defensive positioning has been exposed in several matches. Without a specialist left-back who can provide consistent width and defensive solidity, adding another right-sided or central defender like van de Ven risks overloading one flank and leaving the team susceptible to counter-attacks down the left.
Experts argue United must prioritise a left-back signing — whether through a permanent deal for someone like Antonee Robinson or a high-profile target — before committing significant funds to van de Ven. Tottenham's valuation is expected to start north of £70m given his importance to Postecoglou and his contract until 2029, making any deal a major investment that needs to fit tactically under Ruben Amorim's preferred structure.
Market Signals and Valuation Reality
Betting markets reflect ongoing interest in van de Ven's future, with prices shortening slightly on a move away from Tottenham this summer. United and Liverpool are both prominent in the betting, though Tottenham retention remains the market favourite. The latest Micky van de Ven next club odds suggest growing confidence in a big-money transfer, but scepticism persists over whether United would meet Tottenham's demands without first strengthening elsewhere.
Financially, United have the headroom to fund a £70m-plus deal if they sell fringe assets or generate profit through player trading. However, the club's recent recruitment strategy has emphasised filling specific tactical needs rather than simply adding talent, making the left-back priority a logical condition. Van de Ven's left-footedness would complement United's current right-sided options, but the consensus is clear: without balance across the back four, the investment risks being undermined.
Summer Strategy and Tactical Fit
If United resolve the left-back question — either through an internal solution or external signing — van de Ven becomes a compelling target. His recovery speed would allow Amorim to maintain a high line, while his passing range supports progression from deep. The Dutch defender's composure under pressure and aerial dominance would address United's vulnerability to crosses and set-pieces, areas where they have conceded heavily this season. Tottenham, meanwhile, view him as non-negotiable unless an extraordinary offer arrives, given his importance to their defensive identity.
The coming months will test United's recruitment discipline. Pursuing van de Ven without addressing the left flank would risk repeating past mistakes of unbalanced squads; waiting until the position is strengthened could secure a transformative signing. Either way, van de Ven remains one of the most sought-after young centre-backs in Europe, and his next move will be shaped by tactical necessity as much as individual quality.