Van Dijk Liverpool future: Serie A giants targeting Reds captain amid contract uncertainty – Whisper+ verdict

Virgil van Dijk future
Inter targeting Liverpool's Van Dijk - Photo by IMAGO

Latest developments

  • Inter Milan keen on Virgil van Dijk signing.
  • Liverpool defender is out of contract at the end of the season.
  • Inter's interest appears to be at an early stage.

Whisper+ analysis

Authenticity (2/5): Inter eyeing Van Dijk move

Earlier this month, it was reported that Liverpool are looking to sign Virgil van Dijk's international teammate, Stefan de Vrij, on a free transfer when his Inter contract expires this summer.

There now appears a possibility that Van Dijk could move in the opposite direction, with Caught Offside reporting that Inter are keen to recruit the Liverpool captain in the summer transfer window. However, there have been no ‘concrete negotiations' at this stage.

Value (4.5/5): Van Dijk out of contract this summer

The Italian club have reportedly enquired to gather further information about Van Dijk's current situation at Anfield. As it stands, the Netherlands international is free to talk to overseas clubs about signing a pre-contract agreement, with his current Liverpool deal set to expire at the end of the season.

Suitability (4/5): High-quality defender

Van Dijk may be 33, but he is still performing at an incredibly high level for Arne Slot's side. Van Dijk's leadership would also be invaluable to Inter if they were able to secure the Dutchman's signature this summer.

Upgrade? (4/5): De Vrij replacement

Van Dijk could be recruited to replace De Vrij, who will leave if he does not agree a new contract with the Nerazzuri. The Liverpool defender would only add further quality to Inter's impressive central defensive options, which include Benjamin Pavard, Alessandro Bastoni and Francesco Acerbi.

Logic (4/5): New league, new challenge

Van Dijk has spent over seven years at Anfield, while he has been in the Premier League since 2015. At 33, he may feel it is now the right time to try a fresh challenge. Inter would offer him the chance to continue playing at the top level for a club that have ambitions of winning silverware on a consistent basis.

Whisper+ verdict: 18.5/25

This feels like a move that could work if Van Dijk leaves Liverpool this summer. However, there are doubts about whether Inter will step up their pursuit even if it could be a sensible move for Simone Inzaghi's side.