Sometimes in football when it comes to transfers, things can seem a bit too simple or easy to link as it were. Clickbait by definition to some people. However, there can be a possibility a link simply can’t be dismissed. In this scenario, when you take a Dutch player at a German club being potentially hunted by a potential short-term German sporting director in a position we need (the player that is) then it’s possible. In this scouting report we focus on the potential option of all the above.
What’s Been Said? Nothing from major or renowned sources, however Liverpool have now been linked to Wolfsburg defender Micky Van de Ven (no homegrown element despite the first name). Mark Douglas for online editorial inews, states that the reds have joined the growing number of clubs who are tracking the young Dutch defender, due to the fact he’s well known to incoming Sporting Director Jorg Schmadtke who’d left the club earlier in the year. The report also mention the fact Van De Ven plays on the left side of defence and is one of ‘the divisions most sought after defenders’. What Does He Bring? As well as having the foot of preference the Reds may well be looking for in defence, the 22 year-old has clocked a top speed of 35.87 km/h, which is impressive for a 6ft 3in player. Van De Ven is known for his ability to bring the ball out from the back and the former Volendam product is an impressive passer of the ball too. Despite his age, he has captained the Dutch under-21 team in recent times, though is yet to receive full international honours. An ever-present this season, his only real injury was last campaign when he missed ten games with a hamstring injury. There’s a reason why Christian Falk has previously linked him with Europe’s major players In recent times.
Stats and Info
Van De Ven only renewed his contract with the German club in March this year which he extended through until 2027 and Capology.com puts his current wages at a paltry €420k per year in football terms. He’s represented by The Riola Group, who Liverpool have also spoken to in regards to Ryan Gravenberch so contact and contract won’t be an issue if there’s truth in this. From a Stats perspective, his pass completion rate (87.6%) and progressive carries over 90 minutes (1.25) do stand out, but there is a slight concern over his aerial duel success (51.5% in the Bundesliga) which is well below what Liverpool would desire in a centre-back.
Price Tag and Realistic
With the Schmadtke connection, Wolfsburg only being able to finish 6th at best and the overall package then it shouldn’t be too difficult to complete if Jurgen Klopp does so desire. It’s estimated that a figure somewhere around €30 million would be needed to secure Van de Ven’s signature. However, this really does have the feel of how can we be lazy and link a new sporting director’s arrival with a player. Florian Plettenberg has mentioned Schmadtke will focus on the German market, but this seems a reach truth be told. It can’t be ruled out completely, but file it under possible at best.
