Steven Gerrard has identified a Liverpool star as the ideal player to replace Virgil van Dijk, whose contract expires in the summer of 2027.
With the 35-year-old approaching the latter stages of his career, speculation continues to link him with a move away from Anfield, including reports of interest from AC Milan.
Van Dijk has been instrumental in Liverpool’s success, helping the club keep 111 Premier League clean sheets and win eight trophies.
Gerrard has also named him as Liverpool’s best current player. Having already lost Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson at the end of the 2025/26 season, the prospect of another iconic departure would be a significant blow to supporters.
However, Gerrard believes Liverpool could have a ready-made successor in Jeremy Jacquet. Following Ibrahima Konate’s departure last season, concerns emerged over the Reds’ defensive options ahead of their first campaign under new head coach Andoni Iraola.
Jacquet, who completed a move worth up to £60million in January before spending the second half of last season on loan at former club Stade Rennais, officially joined Liverpool over the summer.
The 21-year-old has featured in every Liverpool fixture so far this season, helping the Reds record three consecutive Premier League clean sheets in their opening five matches.
His performances have already earned praise from supporters, with many describing him as one of the signings of the season.
Gerrard has praised Jacquet’s potential, identifying the Frenchman as the ideal candidate to succeed Van Dijk as the club’s defensive leader in the coming years.
“I love him, I’ve been very impressed with him from the opening pre-season friendlies,” Gerrard told SPORTbible. I think he’s got a composure and a fantastic profile and he can move.
“I think there’s still a bit of rawness about him. But, I think there’s another level which he can get to and I think he’s going to be the perfect replacement for Virg in a year or two because he’s really helped solidify that back four.”
Van Dijk could play a key role in helping Jacquet succeed him while also guiding other young defenders, including Giovanni Leoni, who is recovering from a hamstring injury after joining from Parma in August 2025.
Support DaveOCKOP and enjoy the site completely ad-free. You’ll get an uninterrupted browsing experience while helping us continue to deliver the latest Liverpool news, breaking stories and exclusives. Go ad-free today.