Liverpool ready to part ways with first XI superstar for €55m; contract talks yet to bear fruit

Liverpool are ready to sell skipper Virgil van Dijk for €55m

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has become a major target for the Saudi Pro League this summer. According to an exclusive story by TEAMtalk, the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) has approached Liverpool regarding a potential transfer for the Dutch defender. Van Dijk’s entourage recently met with the PIF to discuss the proposal, and while no decision was made at that meeting, Van Dijk has not ruled out the possibility of joining the Saudi league.

Following these discussions, Van Dijk has given the green light for Saudi negotiators to start formal talks with Liverpool. The initial offer from the PIF to Liverpool was around €55 million (£46.3 million), a figure currently deemed too high by the Saudi side. They have requested additional time to evaluate their next steps, and this high valuation could potentially jeopardize the deal.

Liverpool are ready to sell skipper Virgil van Dijk for €55m.

The Saudi negotiators have indicated that if the asking price for Van Dijk does not drop significantly, they might withdraw from the talks. An alternative strategy being considered is to wait until January, at which point Van Dijk could sign a pre-contract agreement to move as a free agent at the end of the 2024-25 season. This tactic could save the Saudi Pro League a considerable amount of money while still securing one of the world’s best defenders. This would undoubtedly cost Liverpool a small fortune.

Liverpool’s management is currently in a transition phase with Jurgen Klopp stepping down and Arne Slot taking over as his successor. This period of change could be an opportune moment for the club to reassess their roster and make strategic decisions that could have long-term impact.

The Dutchman, who made 48 appearances for Liverpool last season and served his first year as captain, has been a cornerstone in defence since his arrival in January 2018. His leadership and defensive prowess have been crucial to Liverpool’s success, including their Premier League and Champions League triumphs. However, with his contract set to expire in 2025 and renewal talks stalled, Liverpool might be open to parting ways with their defensive stalwart.

Selling Van Dijk for €55 million could provide significant funds to reinvest in the squad, especially given his age and gradually dwindling impact. At 33, he is far from young and is past his prime. While the veteran still packs a punch, Liverpool will be wise to plan ahead.

Van Dijk himself hinted at reconsidering his future over the summer, adding another layer of complexity to the situation. At 33 years old, he remains one of the top defenders globally, and his potential move to the Saudi Pro League would significantly elevate the profile of the league.

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While Van Dijk’s departure would be a substantial loss for Liverpool, it could also present an opportunity for the club to refresh their squad. The financial boost from the transfer could be instrumental in bringing in new talent and addressing other areas of need within the team. For Van Dijk, a move to Saudi Arabia could offer a lucrative final chapter to his illustrious career, allowing him to experience a new footballing environment and contribute to the growing prominence of the Saudi Pro League.

Whether the Reds view their veteran skipper as a relic of the past or as a building block for the future remains to be seen.