Liverpool are currently trying to fend off an approach from Real Madrid for Trent Alexander-Arnold, but they could well have had to keep one of their stars out of contract this summer.
According to reports in Spain, experienced centre-back Virgil van Dijk has also been offered to Los Blancos. Relevo say the Dutchman was keen to move to the Spanish capital, but Real Madrid turned down the chance to sign the 33-year-old, who is currently able to sign a pre-contract with other clubs. It looks like he will eventually sign a new contract with Liverpool, but knowing that Real Madrid are struggling with injuries at the position, Van Dijk could have been an option.
The European champions appreciate Van Dijk's quality and he is having a great season at Anfield, but decided they would not take advantage of the opportunity due to his age. Also a vote of confidence in the options they have, Eder Militao, David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger, Real Madrid will be looking for a central defender in 2025 or 2026, but probably someone much younger.
The report comes as something of a surprise, as Van Dijk was linked with Real Madrid at the end of last year, and the player himself laughed off the idea in the press. Since then, Real Madrid have been linked with Bournemouth defender and Spain Under-21 international Dean Huijsen. He has a relatively affordable price tag of 59 million euros and would meet all their requirements.
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