Liverpool have ruled out selling captain Virgil van Dijk this summer despite strong interest from Italian giants Milan and the defender’s contract entering its final year.
The Merseyside club have made clear they have no intention of allowing their defensive leader to leave Anfield, even though his current deal is set to expire at the end of the season. According to The Athletic‘s Liverpool correspondent James Pearce, the Reds are not prepared to consider offers for the Netherlands international regardless of the contractual circumstances.
Milan had reportedly identified the centre-back as a priority target under new coach Ruben Amorim. The Rossoneri were intrigued by the possibility of securing Van Dijk for a cut-price fee given his contractual situation, with the player having entered the final 12 months of his agreement. Such a move would have added significant experience to their backline as they look to strengthen ahead of the new campaign.
However, the appointment of new Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has not altered the club’s firm stance on their captain. Despite the defender approaching his 35th birthday, he remains central to the club’s plans for the upcoming season. The situation suggests Liverpool are willing to retain the player for the final year of his deal rather than cash in now.
Anfield Cornerstone
Van Dijk has established himself as a transformative figure since arriving from Southampton in January 2018 for €84.65 million. He has accumulated 374 competitive appearances for the Reds and continues to serve as club captain, playing a pivotal role in their domestic and European successes during his tenure.
Milan Accelerate Alternative Plans
With a move for the Liverpool captain now impossible, Milan are accelerating their pursuit of alternative defensive reinforcements. The Serie A side are on the verge of completing a deal for Mario Gila from Lazio and remain in active negotiations for Sporting CP defender Goncalo Inacio.
While Van Dijk will remain at Liverpool for the immediate future, the lack of a new contract agreement means his long-term situation beyond the current season continues to generate speculation, though the club’s immediate priority is retaining his services for the campaign ahead.