Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia in recent months, with the PIF eyeing a swoop.
According to reputed Italian journalist Rudy Galetti, the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia will hold talks with 32-year-old Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk regarding an audacious summer move.
The Dutch international is one of the best players in the world, and signing him would represent an excellent coop for the Saudi Pro League. It would enhance the reputation of their league and raise the standard of their football as well.
However, it would be a massive blow for Liverpool. Virgil van Dijk is not only the best defender at the club, but he is also their captain. Losing him would be a major setback, and it remains to be seen whether Liverpool can convince the player to stay at the club.
Van Dijk is still operating at a world class level, and he needs to play at a top club. Moving to Saudi Arabia might be too soon for him right now. The Dutchman still good enough to lead Liverpool to major trophies.
The Reds must do everything in their power to convince him to sign an extension with the club. The 32-year-old defender has helped Liverpool win every major trophy, and the fans will certainly hope that he can continue at Anfield.
Liverpool must hold on to their best players
Liverpool are already reeling from a managerial change this summer, and they cannot afford to lose their best players as well. It will be interesting to see how the situation develops over the next few weeks. The Saudi Arabian clubs could certainly offer Virgil van Dijk a lucrative contract.
Liverpool are unlikely to be able to match them financially, and they will hope that the player is not attracted by the money on offer. Saudi Arabian clubs have managed to sign a number of top quality players in recent years, including superstars like Cristiano Ronaldo.
Virgil van Dijk is not the only Liverpool player linked with a move to Saudi Arabia and the likes of Alisson Becker and Mohamed Salah are targets for Saudi Pro League clubs as well. It remains to be seen whether Liverpool can hold on to their best players and compete for major trophies once again next season.
