Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk is nearing the end of his contract with Liverpool, and although negotiations with the club are ongoing, no agreement has been reached as yet.
He is already in a position to negotiate with other clubs, with Saudi Arabia and Barcelona rumoured as potential new destinations.
The centre-back will turn 34 this July, but is still one of the best in the world. While many commentators expect him to be in top form for the next few years, former Liverpool defender Markus Babbel said he hopes the player stays and advised him to stay where he is best.
“I hope he will sign.”
“For me, he is still one of the best centre-backs in the world. He is playing a fantastic season and he is so important for this team. He is an absolute leader.”
“Virgil van Dijk in this form can play easily two or three more years for Liverpool because he is outstanding.”
“He is the best [defender of his generation]. He comes from a very bad injury and he is playing unbelievable. He is not doing mistakes; he is always in the right position; he gives the other players around him a good feeling.”
“Even if he is not in the best form — maybe some games — he gives the players around him a good feeling. This is what great players are doing and he is one of the best. For me, he is maybe the best in the world. He was one of the best signings ever. They spent a lot of money on him from Southampton but Liverpool did everything right.”
“Jonathan Tah is a free transfer next year so if he will go, as Liverpool I would try to get him. He is a strong fella — a similar player to Virgil van Dijk. But I still think Van Dijk will stay in Liverpool because it is the best club in the world.”
“I don’t see him somewhere. Where do you want to go? Saudi Arabia? No! He can’t do it! He earns enough money. He is in the best place so stay there.”
Liverpool.com