Latest developments
- Real Madrid want to sign Virgil van Dijk in the summer.
- The Liverpool defender is seen as a replacement for Eder Militao and David Alaba.
- Van Dijk is out of contract at the end of the season.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3.5/5): Real spoken with reputable source
Real Madrid are prepared to listen to offers for the injury-prone Eder Militao and David Alaba and have named Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk as one of their targets to replace the centre-backs.
This news was reported on footballtransfers.com, but the story broke in reputable Spanish newspaper Marca, who claim to have heard from insiders at the Bernabeu.
Value (4/5): Available for free
Liverpool are at risk of losing many key players for nothing in the summer, including van Dijk, whose current deal will expire in six months time.
Great news for Real Madrid, who can get him on a free, though they would have to cough up high wages for a player turning 34 in July.
Suitability (3.5/5): Age a considerable factor
Age seems to be catching up with VVD, who is not quite the unbeatable, dominant presence at the back he was a couple of seasons ago.
However, his experience of delivering trophies for one of the most demanding clubs in the world, as part of a back four, is not to be dismissed.
Upgrade? (3/5): Injury issues of his own
If too many injuries for their current crop of central defenders is an issue for Los Blancos, then van Dijk may not be the answer, as he has spent a decent amount of time on the treatment table, too.
He is, of course, still a world class player in his position, though he wouldn't necessarily be first choice ahead of Antonio Rudiger and Real's other main CB target, Jonathan Tah.
Logic (3/5): Stateside a better choice?
Real Madrid is always going to be a big draw, but with the Dutchman linked with a move to the MLS, he might decide the time is right for a low-pressure move.
The Spanish side seem to feel he has more to give, but they might be better off going after two younger, long-term replacements.
Whisper+ verdict: 17/25
When Real Madrid make their mind up, they often get the player they want. That is enough to give this rumour some validity, but it certainly raises a few eyebrows.
