Liverpool are already preparing for life after Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate, but reports suggest another major departure could still be on the horizon this summer.
The Reds are entering a new chapter under the guidance of Andoni Iraola, and the Spanish head coach will be eager to make a positive first impression when he leads the squad into the new season next month.
A purposeful and positive summer transfer window is desperately needed following the already confirmed exits, as the experience and winning mentality within the dressing room have already been significantly depleted.
However, the departures may not be over just yet.
What’s the latest Liverpool news?
According to Turkish outlet Fotomac, Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk could be set for a move to Galatasaray, with claims that preliminary talks have already been positive.
The report claims the Turkish giants are preparing to sell Davinson Sanchez this summer and view the Netherlands international as his ideal replacement, having already made contact with the defender’s representatives.
Will Virgil van Dijk leave Liverpool?
There is no doubt that Liverpool are entering a period of uncertainty following the departures of several popular and successful players, as well as the arrival of a new manager on Merseyside.
Iraola is expected to bring a breath of fresh air to Anfield with the exciting, high-energy football he demonstrated at AFC Bournemouth, but there is still plenty of work to be done if Liverpool are to return to consistently competing for major trophies.
With just one year remaining on his contract, Van Dijk is one of the few players still at the club who enjoyed sustained success under Jurgen Klopp, and his leadership remains invaluable both on the pitch and in the dressing room.
While there are currently no reports of contract talks to extend the Dutchman’s stay, Konate’s departure has already left Liverpool short of experienced defensive depth.
As a result, it would seem entirely bizarre for the club to sanction Van Dijk’s exit at this stage and any speculation in the Turkish media should be taken with a pinch of salt.
Not to mention the financial investment FSG would need to make in the back line should they allow the captain to leave, which appears unlikely given their current focus on finding Salah’s successor.
What’s next for Liverpool’s transfer window?
Liverpool confirmed the £60m signing of centre-back Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes this morning.
The France Under-21 international joins the Reds on a five-year deal that was agreed back in January and is expected to take part in the club’s full pre-season programme this month.
The 20-year-old suffered a shoulder injury just weeks after Liverpool reached an agreement with Rennes but has now successfully completed his rehabilitation and is ready to make an immediate impact under Iraola.
Jacquet told LiverpoolFC.com:
“I feel really good, the first impressions are good and I am very happy to start here.”
“I am very happy. When I see the facilities, I can see myself there. I feel good here and I am very excited to get started.”
“For me it’s a big dream, it’s a big club. A club like Liverpool, it’s a big dream for me.”
Elsewhere, Liverpool have also been handed renewed hope in their pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain star Bradley Barcola after Fabrizio Romano reported that the French winger’s future remains undecided.
While strengthening the attack remains a priority, keeping hold of Van Dijk could ultimately prove just as important as any marquee signing.
If Iraola is to rebuild Liverpool into genuine Premier League title contenders again, retaining his captain may be one of the biggest victories of the summer.