As defensive injuries plague Old Trafford, the Red Devils eye a versatile Dutch defender to bolster their backline and outpace European rivals in a high-stakes summer pursuit.
Despite being in no European competitions this season and failing to progress from either domestic cup competition, Manchester United have still faced injury woes in the defensive department.
Mattihijs De Ligt has been the most notable absentee, having been out since December with what was initially a small back issue that has led to him missing almost the entirety of the second half of the season.
At different points the likes of Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez and Leny Yoro have each endured spells out with Maguire and Martinez most recenetly having a spell out suspended.
With the Champions League confirmed for next season, having reliable depth with a greater guarantee of being fit is essential.
United interest in Van De Ven grows
With concerns growing about the current Red Devils squad's ability to cope with the stresses of playing multiple times a week, it is no surprise to see the club eyeing up Micky van ee Ven.
Tottenham Hotspur have endured a disasterous season, sitting just one point above the relegation zone and their future in the Premier League still in the balance.
The 25-year-old has played his part in Spurs' poor season, but has previously shown the clear quality he has. Most recently against Aston Villa, the Dutchman reminded the world of his ability as he led Spurs as a leader to a big win.
According to Football Insider, United's interest has grown in the defender as the club looks to bolster its options next season.
Former United chief scout Mick Brown said: “Going into next season, they want an experienced and reliable centre-back alongside Maguire, and that’s why Micky van de Ven is somebody I’m told they’re looking at.
“He might leave Tottenham even if they stay in the Premier League because he wants to play at a higher level, and Man United can offer him that.
“He would be an ambitious target, but he’s somebody they like in a position they need to strengthen, so it’s something they have to look at.”
However, Barcelona and Liverpool have also shown their interest in the defender, with a transfer battle seemingly arriving this summer for his signature.
Perfect market opportunity
If Spurs were to go down, Van de Ven could prove to be a brilliant market opportunity. Not only can he play at centre-back, but he can also play left-back, which adds to the case for bringing him to the club.
Luke Shaw has had a stellar season in terms of appearances, having started all 35 games so far for the first time in his United career. However, with the extra games next season, the club will need to rotate, and Van De Ven can fill that gap.
Furthermore, Van de Ven has struggled with injuries for his entire time at Spurs, but this season he has played 32 league games, the most since his last season at Wolfsburg.
The price tag is an important factor in this deal, as if Spurs were to stay up, they would be likely to charge in excess of £50 million. With the club needing to spend more on the midfield, having to spend that much on a player who is not a guaranteed starter would not be an efficient way of spending funds.