Latest developments
- Virgil van Dijk is set to become a free agent in the summer.
- Liverpool are yet to find an agreement over a new contract with their star defender.
- Real Madrid have been suggested as his potential destination.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (3/5): Van Dijk remains coy over Liverpool future
Virgil van Dijk was asked about his Liverpool future following the Reds victory over Tottenham Hotspur in the Carabao Cup. The Dutchman insisted he has “no idea” about his contract, suggesting the two parties aren't close to finding an agreement over a new deal.
🚨🇳🇱 Virgil van Dijk on his contract: “What the future brings, I have no idea”.
“Whoever says they know something knows nothing at all!”. pic.twitter.com/wTnkULdFbQ
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 6, 2025
Should Van Dijk leave Anfield as a free agent, a host of clubs are expected to make an approach. Most recently, Real Madrid were suggested as his next potential club by a journalist, owing to injuries to Eder Militao and David Alaba.
Value (4/5): Elite defender on a free transfer
Despite being 33 years old, Van Dijk remains one of the best centre-backs in Europe. As such, the idea of signing him on a free transfer is bound to appeal to Real, who have signed many free agents in recent windows, including Alaba, Antonio Rudiger, and Kylian Mbappe.
Suitability (4/5): Solid addition
Much has been written about Mo Salah's magic but Van Dijk's resilient defending and leadership ability have played a big part in cementing Liverpool's position as title favourites. He is going to be a solid addition to any club in Europe.
Upgrade? (3.5/5): New defensive partners
Ahead of the next campaign, both Militao and Alaba might be available for selection. However, the pair has endured multiple concerning injuries over the last few years and it's fair to say they are injury prone defenders. As such, Los Blancos should look for a new defender and in that regard there aren't many better options than Van Dijk, who could form a sensational pairing with Rudiger.
Logic (3.5/5): Well-deserved adventure
Van Dijk is on the verge of leading Liverpool to another league title. Following that, not many supporters of the Merseyside outfit could complain if he were to exit the club for a new adventure in Spain or elsewhere for that matter.
Whisper+ verdict: 18/25
Van Dijk is keeping his contract situation and talks with Liverpool close to his chest but with only five months left on his deal, the suggestions of an exit are only going to intensify.
