Liverpool could suffer another major setback after reports linking Virgil van Dijk with a surprise exit from the club.
Anfield has already gone through significant changes since the end of the 2025/26 season, with Arne Slot dismissed and replaced by former Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola.
Meanwhile, Mo Salah, Andy Robertson, and Ibrahima Konaté have all left on free transfers, adding to the upheaval at the club.
Now, further concern has emerged around captain Van Dijk, who is reportedly being targeted in an unexpected move. According to Turkish journalist Yağız Sabuncuoğlu, Galatasaray are preparing a series of ambitious transfer plans and have set their sights on the Dutch defender.
The transfer window officially opens on June 15, and reports suggest the Turkish giants could soon table a formal bid for the 34-year-old. Sabuncuoğlu stated: “Galatasaray haven’t made a move for Virgil van Dijk yet. I expect activity after June 15. They are considering an official offer.”
He also noted Galatasaray’s interest in Bernardo Silva, although the midfielder is reportedly close to joining Real Madrid on a free transfer after leaving Manchester City. Eintracht Frankfurt’s Can Uzun is also on their shortlist as they look to strengthen the squad.
However, a move for Van Dijk would represent their biggest statement of intent yet. Turkish outlet Fotomac also claims the defender is “top of their list,” adding that discussions are ongoing.
Despite the speculation, the deal 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.
Liverpool are also dealing with defensive uncertainty following Konaté’s departure to Real Madrid, leaving Joe Gomez and Van Dijk as the main senior centre-back options. Youngster Giovanni Leoni is returning from injury, while Jeremy Jacquet of Rennes is set to join the squad.
The club has also been linked with several defensive reinforcements, including Burnley’s Maxime Estève, while there are even suggestions that Jarell Quansah could return from Bayer Leverkusen, where he currently plays after a move last summer that included a £55m buy-back clause.
According to reports from the ECHO, Quansah has already agreed personal terms over a potential return to Merseyside.
Leave a Reply