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European giants plot move for Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk after the Netherlands' FIFA World Cup exit - Reports

Serie A giants AC Milan are reportedly plotting a move for Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk following the Netherlands' exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With Ruben Amorim having taken charge at the San Siro this summer, the Serie A giants are looking to reshape their squad.

The Rossoneri have already made a big statement this summer by bringing Portuguese striker Goncalo Ramos from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). Amorim reportedly spent €80 million, including potential add-ons, for the Portugal international's signature.

As reported by Tribal Football, they are now plotting a move for Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk as they look to bolster defence. The Dutchman is contracted at Anfield until the summer of 2027, which could be a major stumbling block for them.

Sporting CP defender Goncalo Inacio, who formerly played under Amorim at the Portuguese side, is reportedly seen as an alternative. However, they are prioritising a move for van Dijk for his leadership and experience.

Van Dijk is regarded as one of the best defenders in the modern era and has been pivotal behind Liverpool's success over the years. He joined the Reds in January 2018 in a reported £75 million deal from Southampton, which was then a world-record fee for a defender.

The Dutchman has made 374 appearances for the Merseyside giants, scoring 36 goals and providing 16 assists. He has won nine trophies at Anfield, including one Champions League and two Premier League titles.

A modern-day defender with exquisite passing range, technique and composure, van Dijk could still be a huge addition to AC Milan even at 34. He captained the Netherlands in the 2026 FIFA World Cup as they crashed out of the Round of 32, losing against Morocco on penalties.

FIFA World Cup star opens up on interest from Liverpool and PSG

Ivory Coast's 2026 FIFA World Cup star Yan Diomande opened up on interest from Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The 19-year-old emerged as one of the most in-demand players in world football.

Diomande claimed that he is unaware of the rumours regarding his future as he is not using the internet while at the FIFA World Cup. He insisted that he is fully focused on the tournament and lets his agents make decisions on his behalf. He said:

"I don't have the internet, Instagram, ‌TikTok and that kind of thing, so regarding the discussions with ‌my club it's my agent that does that. It's a great chance to play at the World Cup and I want to make the ‌most of that. I remain focused on that ⁠and I really want to ‌enjoy this World Cup as much as possible."

The fleet-footed winger impressed in the 2026 FIFA World Cup for Ivory Coast as they made their way to the Round of 32. Their World Cup journey, however, came to an end, in the Round of 32 as they lost 2-1 against Norway.

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