“He’s strong, he’s fast as well”- 8-cap Italy international has high praise for Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk

Arsenal target Willy Gnonto waxes lyrical over Liverpool superstar Virgil van Dijk

Leeds United left-winger Wilfried Gnonto has praised Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk when asked to choose between the Dutchman and Manchester City’s Ruben Dias.

According to Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport (h/t Manchester Evening News), Chelsea and Arsenal are both linked with the young Leeds forward. This showcases the impression he made during his first season in the Premier League.

He was signed by the Yorkshire-based outfit just last summer from FC Zurich and has already made nine

senior appearances for Italy. One can imagine the 19-year-old in Arsenal’s young team under manager Mikel Arteta.

He could also be one of Chelsea’s latest young recruits if the Blues formalise their interest in him. But going by his opinion on Virgil van Dijk, Liverpool fans would hope he has a soft spot for the Reds somewhere.

Gnonto fawns over Van Dijk

During an appearance for the Premier League’s ePL uncut series (h/t Liverpool Echo), he was asked to choose between Manchester City’s Dias and Van Dijk when playing FIFA. His answer was straightforward:

“I would probably say Van Dijk. I haven’t played against Ruben Dias, so I can’t say [who is better in real life]. I’m lucky. But Van Dijk is incredible. He’s strong, he’s fast as well, good on the ball.”

Van Dijk is truly one of the greatest footballers, not just defender, of our generation. Gnonto isn’t the first to praise him in such a manner and he definitely won’t be the last. Our midfield has been very, very poor this season.

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• Chelsea to demand around £60m-£70m for Liverpool target Mason Mount

It is a big reason why our defence hasn’t been shielded properly and why Van Dijk hasn’t looked his best. Of course, the 21-year-old has made some mistakes but he needs players of his level around him. Jude Bellingham will be the ideal place to start.