Liverpool Miss Out on Marc Guehi and Target Micky van de Ven as Successor to Virgil van Dijk

When Liverpool’s hopes of signing Marc Guehi slipped through their fingers again this January, it marked another setback for the club. The Reds had been monitoring the Crystal Palace captain for months, and after nearly completing a deal in the summer, there was a sense that this window might finally bring success. However, Manchester City moved quickly to secure Guehi on a £20 million deal, leaving Liverpool to rethink their defensive strategy. That development shifted Liverpool’s attention towards Micky van de Ven, who is increasingly seen as the club’s long-term successor to Virgil van Dijk.

Liverpool had come extremely close to signing Guehi last summer, arranging a medical and agreeing terms with Crystal Palace. That deal collapsed because Palace could not bring in a replacement defender in time, forcing Liverpool to step back. For months, supporters and pundits expected the Reds to return in January to try again. But Manchester City’s quick action in finalising the deal left Liverpool on the outside looking in. Missing out on Guehi has now crystallised the club’s focus on van de Ven, a player who aligns with Liverpool’s long-term vision for the central defence.

How Liverpool Missed Out on Guehi Again

Liverpool’s decision not to push harder for Guehi in January was influenced by several factors. Financially, the club considered waiting to sign him on a free transfer in the summer rather than paying a fee mid-season. That cautious approach, while understandable from a budget perspective, left the team with an immediate defensive gap. With injuries affecting key players and squad depth limited, the lack of an aggressive move drew criticism from fans, who had hoped for reinforcement sooner.

Manchester City, by contrast, had no time to wait. With Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias sidelined, Pep Guardiola needed defensive reinforcements immediately. City made a decisive bid, offering Palace a deal they accepted. This proactive approach allowed City to secure a top Premier League defender while Liverpool stayed on the sidelines. In this context, missing Guehi was less a matter of choice and more a result of timing and strategic caution.

Liverpool’s defensive roster has shown vulnerabilities this season. Virgil van Dijk remains the linchpin, but injuries and contract uncertainties with other defenders, including Joe Gomez and Ibrahima Konate, have highlighted the need for reinforcements. The club knew that if Guehi’s opportunity passed, they would have to find a replacement who could eventually step into van Dijk’s shoes. That search led naturally to Micky van de Ven.

Van de Ven as the Next Van Dijk

Micky van de Ven is now Liverpool’s primary target, seen not just as another centre-back but as the successor to Virgil van Dijk. At 24, van de Ven combines physical presence, pace and composure on the ball, all qualities Liverpool value highly in their defensive leaders. He is capable of playing a high line, stepping forward with the ball, and reading the game intelligently, which mirrors many of van Dijk’s defining traits.

Reports suggest Liverpool are prepared to invest heavily, with a potential offer around €90 million (£78 million) being discussed to secure van de Ven’s services. This demonstrates the club’s intent to not just fill a gap but to plan for a decade-long defensive succession. The idea is for van de Ven to learn from van Dijk in the short term and gradually take on leadership responsibilities, ensuring continuity in the backline when van Dijk eventually retires or reduces his minutes.

Tottenham, where van de Ven has been a key player since joining from Wolfsburg, are aware of Liverpool’s interest. The north London club are reportedly considering a contract extension to retain him, which could complicate negotiations. However, Liverpool’s Champions League status, recent successes, and long-term planning make them an attractive destination for the Dutchman, adding weight to the potential transfer.

What Van de Ven Brings to the Squad

Van de Ven offers Liverpool several clear benefits. His speed and recovery make him effective at covering ground, which is vital in a system that relies on a high defensive line. He can defend one-on-one, intercept passes, and carry the ball forward from the back, helping Liverpool maintain tempo and build attacks smoothly.

At 24, he also brings physical presence and aerial strength, which are important for dealing with crosses and long balls. His positioning and timing in duels make him a natural fit alongside van Dijk, which is why he is seen as the long-term successor to Virgil van Dijk.

Beyond his defensive skills, van de Ven shows leadership potential. He communicates well on the pitch and has experience organising defenders in high-pressure situations. Liverpool view him as someone who can learn from van Dijk initially and gradually take on more responsibility, ensuring continuity in the backline.

This signing is about long-term planning rather than a short-term fix. Van de Ven’s versatility allows him to play in a back four or back three, handle high-press situations, and contribute to fast transitions. He strengthens Liverpool’s squad depth and helps the team manage rotation during busy periods, securing defensive stability for years to come.

How Fans and Clubs Are Reacting

Supporters have had mixed reactions. Some are frustrated that Liverpool did not act aggressively for Guehi, while others are encouraged by the focus on van de Ven, who represents long-term planning. On Tottenham’s side, there is growing awareness that van de Ven might leave if Liverpool pursue the deal seriously. The Spurs legend Gabby Agbonlahor recently suggested that van de Ven deserves to play at a club challenging for major honours, adding public pressure and interest.

This situation highlights how volatile the transfer market can be. Opportunities that seem guaranteed can disappear quickly, and clubs must remain agile. For Liverpool, targeting van de Ven as the successor to Virgil van Dijk represents a strategic move, ensuring continuity in the squad and providing fans with a clear path for the defensive future.

Liverpool’s pursuit of van de Ven highlights the club’s approach to succession planning. Missing out on Guehi was a setback, but targeting van de Ven shows their intent to maintain stability at the heart of the defence and plan for the long-term future.