Today's latest sees updates surface about Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk as a huge major price tag is touted
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk after the win over Galatasaray at Anfield
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk had been linked with a move away from the Reds(Image: 2026 Liverpool FC)
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With Liverpool undergoing significant change this summer, one might assume it's crucial they retain their most seasoned players. Arne Slot departed to make way for Andoni Iraola at the campaign's conclusion, and the Basque manager is now moulding his Reds squad, having already secured a deal for Victor Munoz from Osasuna.
Liverpool have seen the exits of Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate already this summer. The club's Brazilian goalkeeper, Alisson Becker, was also the subject of transfer speculation, but he appears set to remain following considerable conjecture.
Additional rumours have focused on the potential departure of club captain Virgil van Dijk, which would carry enormous ramifications for the club. Today's developments bring fresh information regarding Van Dijk's future. Meanwhile, a possible target for the Reds has been handed an eye-watering valuation.
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Virgil van Dijk update
Van Dijk is understood to be remaining at Liverpool this season, despite some suggestions touted last week. The Dutch centre-back, who turns 35 this month, is in the second year of a two-year extension he penned in April of last year.
Reports via TEAMtalk claimed that the Reds were 'prepared to evaluate any serious offer on its merits before making a decision' and said the club no longer regarded their captain as 'untouchable.'
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - MAY 03: Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool looks dejected following the Premier League match between Manchester United and Liverpool at Old Trafford on May 03, 2026 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
Virgil van Dijk is staying at Liverpool(Image: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
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However, speculation linking him to clubs such as AC Milan and Fenerbahce has been firmly rejected by Anfield sources. It's understood that the club are preparing for the campaign ahead with their long-serving captain included.
Van Dijk featured in every minute of Premier League action last season and continues to be a vital presence at Liverpool.
£100m World Cup star
Liverpool and other prospective suitors have been cautioned they may need to fork out approximately £100million to secure World Cup star Ayyoub Bouaddi. The teenager has impressed for Morocco at this summer's tournament, having been instrumental in the African nation's progression to the quarter-finals.
Following three outstanding campaigns with French outfit Lille, clubs including the Reds, Man United and Arsenal are reportedly interested in the 18-year-old. He still has three years left on his deal and therefore his club face no urgency to sell.
Lille president Olivier Letang has now suggested it would require a remarkable sum to relinquish the club's prized possession. Speaking to Eurosport, he said: "Many clubs are interested in him, but very few can afford him right now.
"He's already one of the best midfielders in the world and still has significant room for improvement. He's only 18 and has his whole future ahead of him. He's focused on continuing to develop and winning everything."
Ayyoub Bouaddi
Ayyoub Bouaddi is a wanted man(Image: Getty Images)
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When asked if he had established a valuation for the midfielder, Letang replied: "How to answer that question... Have I spoken, brought up the subject, given a figure? No, never.
"You have to look at his level. How much have players like (Elliot) Anderson [to Man City for £116m] or (Sandro) Tonali [to Spurs for £100m] been sold for, who are much older, but without room for improvement, so you have an idea of the value of Ayyoub, who has a unique profile at only 18 years old."
Speaking at World Cup 2026, Bouaddi said: "For the moment I'm only focused on the World Cup, I cannot answer to this right now. I'm really happy to know that some clubs are interested in me but for now I'm here focused on the World Cup with Morocco and we will try to give everything to do our best."
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