According to reports, Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk is on FC Barcelona’s radar and this shock transfer ‘depends’ on three factors.
Van Dijk had his doubters after suffering a serious knee injury as his form dipped, but he has returned to his best over the past couple of seasons.
The Liverpool captain has cemented his place as one of the best centre-backs in Premier League history this season as he’s starred for Arne Slot’s side, who are competing for four trophies.
So it is concerning that the experienced Dutchman is among the 20 best footballers who could leave on a free transfer in 2025 following the expiry of his contract.
Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold are in the same boat and it remains to be seen whether the three players will commit their futures to Liverpool beyond this season.
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Alexander-Arnold is arguably the most likely of the three players to leave as Van Dijk and Salah’s age limits their options.
Despite this, a report in Spain claims Van Dijk has ‘burst onto Barcelona’s list of targets’ as sporting director Deco ‘keeps a close eye’ on his situation.
It is noted that the possible arrival of Van Dijk would force the ‘sacrifice’ of Uraguay international Ronald Araujo, who is the ‘main candidate’ to leave amid interest from Premier League sides.
Araujo recently penned a contract extension but Barcelona are ‘not closing the door on his exit’, especially ‘if a good offer comes in’.
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Van Dijk’s proposed move to Barcelona reportedly ‘depends’ on three factors.
‘The Uruguayan is a highly valued player on the market, and there are several Premier League teams willing to offer figures in excess of 60 million euros for his signing.
‘If Barcelona agree to sell him, Van Dijk’s arrival would be practically unblocked, since the club could assume his high salary without compromising its financial limit.
‘The Dutchman has been a key pillar in Slot’s Liverpool, but his age (33 years old) raises doubts about whether he can still perform at the highest level for several seasons. At Barcelona, the bet has been on young talents such as Cubarsi and Kounde, so signing a veteran like Van Dijk could mean a change in the sporting strategy.
‘For now, Deco is still assessing the situation. Everything will depend on what happens with Araujo, on the decision Van Dijk makes about his future and on the club’s financial availability. What is clear is that Barcelona are not ruling out major moves in defence to strengthen Flick’s team.
‘If Van Dijk is released and Araujo receives a big offer, the Dutchman could become the big defensive reinforcement of the summer.’
