Latest Developments
- Liverpool eyeing potential move for Stefan de Vrij
- The Inter Milan defender is out of contract this summer
- De Vrij plays alongside Virgil van Dijk in the Netherlands side
Whisper+ Analysis
Authenticity (2.5/5): Liverpool eyeing De Vrij move
Liverpool are believed to be considering De Vrij as a potential target for the summer transfer window.
According to Tutto Juve, the Reds would be able to meet De Vrij's salary expectations, with the defender earning around €3.8m (£3.2m) with Simone Inzaghi's side.
Value (4/5): Potential free transfer
The Reds could have the opportunity to sign De Vrij on a free transfer as his current deal is set to expire at the end of the season.
Inter do have the option to extend his contract by a further 12 months, but even if they were to take up that option, Liverpool could still look to sign the Dutchman for a cut-price fee.
Suitability (2/5): Concern over Age
De Vrij has demonstrated his defensive and leadership qualities during his seven-year association with Inter. However, Liverpool will be concerned by the fact he turned 33 earlier this year and is now in the latter stages of his career.
Upgrade (1.5/5): Van Dijk teammate or replacement
De Vrij could be brought in to operate alongside Virgil van Dijk to replicate their centre-back partnership with Ronald Koeman's Netherlands side. If that was the case, the Reds would again have concerns about having two 33-year-olds playing in the heart of their backline in the Premier League.
Meanwhile, if Van Dijk was to leave when his contract expires this summer, Liverpool are likely to look at younger options to be a long-term successor for their current captain.
Logic (3.5/5): New challenge
From De Vrij's perspective, he may be open to trying a new challenge after spending the last 11 years playing in Italy with Lazio and Inter.
Whisper+ Verdict: 13.5/25
It is difficult to see this move coming to fruition even if Van Dijk leaves this summer. Liverpool are likely to look at younger defensive targets rather than recruit a defender in the twilight of his career.
