After a successful career progression with Groningen, Celtic and Southampton, Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk leads an ironclad defence at Anfield, shutting out opposition attacks with his high leadership and individual ability.
The Breder-born defender, who has been at Liverpool since January 20218, turns 33 this year. His current contract also runs until June 2025, and although the player has stated that he would like to renew his contract, it remains to be seen whether an agreement can be reached on the length of the contract and salary.
At the same time, a wide variety of players have been linked with a move to Liverpool, with many wondering who the Dutch defender’s successor will be. And it seems that a French centre-back from Spain has been added to that list.
According to Fichajes, Liverpool are evaluating Sevilla defender Loïc Badé as a replacement for their defensive leader and could be in the market for him next summer. It is also reported that a €60 million release clause exists and that they are willing to pay that amount.
In the summer of 2023, he moved completely from Rennes to Sevilla. He has made 50 appearances in La Liga and has also experienced the Champions League and Europa League. He was also selected for the France U-23 squad for the Olympics this summer, making six appearances.
With Ibrahima Konate and Jarell Quansah already in the squad, it is believed that Liverpool were looking to secure a left-back in the summer transfer window, so it remains to be seen to what extent the right-back is a target for the club.
Will Liverpool really be looking to whitewash the young French defender?