Real Madrid will reportedly look to take advantage of Jurgen Klopp’s impending departure to sign Virgil van Dijk from Liverpool this summer.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Fichajes, Virgil van Dijk is the subject of interest from Real Madrid. The Merengues are in the market for a centre-back ahead of the summer transfer window. And they have set their sights on the 32-year-old Liverpool defender over a possible move.
The Rise and Rise of Virgil van Dijk
Virgil van Dijk has established himself as one of the best defenders in the world since joining Liverpool from Southampton in January 2018. The Reds had to burn a few bridges to sign the Dutchman after an unsuccessful chase in the summer transfer window of 2017.
The 32-year-old has turned out nearly 250 times thus far for Liverpool, chipping in with 21 goals and 14 assists. Meanwhile, he has made 64 appearances for the Netherlands on the international stage. The experienced defender serves both teams as their captain, having succeeded Jordan Henderson as the Liverpool skipper.
But van Dijk has recently cast doubts on his long-term Liverpool future after Jurgen Klopp announced his upcoming departure from Anfield. Such an update has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs across Europe, particularly Real Madrid.
Real Madrid Calling?
Real Madrid’s interest in Virgil van Dijk is hardly surprising, considering they are in the market for a central defender. David Alaba, Antonio Rudiger, and Nacho are on the wrong side of 30. In addition, Nacho has entered the final six months of his contract with Real Madrid, while Alaba will return to action next season after a long-term knee injury.
While van Dijk is also in his thirties, he can be a solution for several years due to his low-exertion style of play. But the 64-cap Dutch international is not the only centre-back on Real Madrid’s radar. Recent reports have also linked the Spanish clubs with several other candidates, including Edmond Tapsoba.
So, it will be interesting to see if the Merengues prefer a more experienced option or turn to a younger candidate to bolster the defensive unit. For now, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has emerged as a viable target for Real Madrid.
