Liverpool could suffer another significant setback after reports linked captain Virgil van Dijk with a surprise departure from Anfield.
The club has already undergone major changes since the end of the 2025/26 season, with Arne Slot dismissed and replaced by former Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola.
Meanwhile, several key players including Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson, and Ibrahima Konaté have already left on free transfers.
Now, Van Dijk has also emerged as a potential target elsewhere, with reports from Turkey suggesting Galatasaray are preparing a bold move.
Turkish journalist Yağız Sabuncuoğlu claims the Istanbul giants are planning an ambitious transfer window and have identified Van Dijk as a major target. The transfer window officially opens on June 15, and Galatasaray are reportedly ready to table an official offer for the 34-year-old defender shortly after.
Sabuncuoğlu stated that no formal approach has been made yet, but expects developments after June 15, adding that Galatasaray are considering submitting an official bid.
He also noted Galatasaray’s interest in Bernardo Silva, although the Manchester City midfielder is believed to be close to a free transfer move to Real Madrid, as well as Can Uzun of Eintracht Frankfurt as part of their squad strengthening plans.
However, a move for Van Dijk would represent their most high-profile statement of intent so far. Turkish outlet Fotomac also claims the Dutch defender is at the very top of their shortlist, with ongoing discussions expected.
Despite the speculation, the transfer appears highly unlikely.
Van Dijk is currently focused on captaining the Netherlands at the World Cup, where they begin their campaign against Japan on Sunday.
At Liverpool, there is growing concern over defensive depth, especially after Konaté’s reported departure to Real Madrid, leaving Van Dijk and Joe Gomez as the main senior centre-back options.
Young defender Giovanni Leoni is expected to return from a long-term ACL injury after making his debut last season, while Rennes prospect Jeremy Jacquet is also set to join the squad.
The club has also been linked with several centre-back targets, including Burnley’s Maxime Estève.
There are even suggestions that Liverpool could re-sign former defender Jarell Quansah, who joined Bayer Leverkusen last summer but could return due to a £55m buy-back clause.
Reports from the Liverpool Echo claim Quansah has already agreed personal terms for a potential return to Merseyside after coming through the club’s academy system.
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