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Liverpool have no intention of selling captain Virgil van Dijk this summer despite speculation linking the Dutch defender with a move away from Anfield.
The 35-year-old is entering the final year of his contract, sparking reports that AC Milan and Fenerbahce are monitoring his situation ahead of the new season.
However, Liverpool are determined to keep Van Dijk and are not considering a sale during the current transfer window.
The experienced centre-back is expected to return to Andoni Iraola’s squad later this month following the Netherlands’ World Cup exit. Ronald Koeman’s side were knocked out by Morocco on penalties in the round of 16.
After the defeat, Van Dijk posted an emotional message on Instagram, thanking supporters for their backing throughout the tournament.
“As captain, all I ever wanted was to make this country proud. To see our World Cup end so early is heartbreaking because I know how much this team gave every single day,” the 35-year-old said.
“Now is about accepting that we failed, and we take full responsibility for it. I’d like to thank our travelling fans and everyone back home who believed in us and stood by us until the end. We saw you, and we felt your support every step of the way.”
Liverpool’s ownership group, Fenway Sports Group, has often preferred to keep experienced players into the final year of their contracts rather than sell them for reduced fees.
Virgil van Dijk signed a two-year extension in 2025 alongside Mohamed Salah. That deal expires next summer, and Liverpool are reportedly prepared to honour it in full.
According to Gazzetta.it, AC Milan plan to make a strong move for Van Dijk when his contract expires. Ruben Amorim’s side have agreed a deal to sign defender Mario Gila from Lazio, while Real Madrid’s 19-year-old left-sided defender Victor Valdepenas is also reportedly a target.
The report adds that Fikayo Tomori is available for around £17million, with new coach Ruben Amorim believed to have concerns over the defender’s technical ability.
Van Dijk’s early World Cup exit could benefit Liverpool, allowing him to return for pre-season sooner and focus on the new campaign.
Fellow Dutch internationals Ryan Gravenberch and Cody Gakpo are also expected back at Anfield, determined to respond after the Netherlands’ early tournament exit.
Van Dijk will now turn his attention to helping Liverpool compete for major honours, with the coming season potentially his final one at the club.