Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has been the target of Barcelona’s alleged interest, which has shocked the football community. The Spanish publication El Nacional said that the Catalan powerhouses are looking into ways to sign the Dutch defender this summer on a free transfer, as reported by Football365. Van Dijk’s future is still up in the air because his contract is about to expire and Liverpool has not yet obtained an extension.
According to reports, Barcelona is thinking about making a big “sacrifice” to create room for the 33-year-old, and Sporting Director Deco is keeping a careful eye on Van Dijk’s situation. That sacrifice might be Ronald Araujo, who signed a contract extension through 2031 but is free to go if a significant offer is made.
Barcelona’s ability to match Van Dijk’s £220,000 weekly salary could be “unblocked” by Araujo’s possible sale for about €60 million (£50 million, $61.2 million). Given their well-documented financial difficulties, Barcelona’s ability to pull off such a move is still doubtful, but their recent history indicates they are willing to be bold in the market.
Barcelona is ready to make a move to sign Reds star for free this summer
Fabrizio Romano has provided Liverpool supporters with a positive update, despite indications in Spain that indicate Van Dijk may be headed to Barcelona. It is true, he added, that during the match against Tottenham, Virgil van Dijk’s representatives were seated next to Richard Hughes, Liverpool’s director of football. Liverpool and Virgil van Dijk’s agency continue to have excellent communication and a positive working relationship. As of right now, no decision has been reached. Nevertheless, the discussions go on.
For the club’s Arne Slot project, losing a player like Van Dijk would be devastating. All of the world’s top teams retain their best players, and the Merseyside team must follow suit.
Feyenoord defender David Hancko has been named by Liverpool as Van Dijk’s possible replacement in the event that the player departs.
