Virgil van Dijk’s contract status at Liverpool – it expires next summer – is causing plenty of excitement around Europe.
The Dutch defender may not be the player he once was at 35-years-old, but few would argue he isn’t still among the top defenders in Europe.
And him potentially being available on a free transfer next summer still causes plenty of interest. This week, reports have insisted that the likes of Real Madrid and AC Milan are keeping a close eye on the situation.
Milan interest
Milan’s interest has not gone unnoticed by journalist Carlo Pellegatti, who is increasingly certain that the Liverpool defender could end up at the Rossoneri.
“Van Dijk would be a tremendous signing – both practically, given that we need a player of that profile in defense, and in terms of media impact, as it would signal that a top player is choosing Milan,” he said on his YouTube channel.
“Clearly, to convince a player of his calibre, Milan absolutely must be in the Champions League; if I were Van Dijk and were being courted by Real Madrid as well, I might prefer Milan out of personal attachment.
“But it has to be a club playing in the Champions League – otherwise, that attachment takes a back seat.”
Older players still shining
Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool lines up before the UEFA Europa League Atalanta BC v Liverpool FC at Gewiss Stadium.
He is absolutely convinced that Milan should be doing their best to convince the Liverpool star, should it be made clear that he is available on a free transfer next summer.
The journalist is also insistent that Van Dijk’s age should not matter. After all, older stars have often shined in Milan down the years.
“It’s a lead worth pursuing let’s see if Cardinale can pull off this first major signing – perhaps by starting work on it as early as January or February, given that the player’s contract is expiring and Liverpool doesn’t seem inclined to renew it,” he added.
“It would be a fantastic signing. Age doesn’t really matter to me: the great Zlatan Ibrahimović helped us win a league title and was even older, as was Giroud.
“The important thing is that they are top-quality players; age doesn’t count – only ability matters, and van Dijk is an exceptional player.”
