Real Madrid reject free offer for Liverpool captain Van Dijk

Virgil van Dijk is one of Liverpool's three high-profile players who have entered the final six months of their deals with the club alongside Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold. While there is a looming feeling among fans that the Dutch captain will stay at Anfield - as he revealed that he's calm about his contract situation - 'Relevo' reveal that the centre-back has explored the idea of a future away from the Reds.

According to the report, Van Dijk's agents offered the player's services to Real Madrid, who also consider Alexander-Arnold as a top target, for next season. It is understood that the Spanish capital side rejected the 2019 Ballon d'Or runner-up because he did not fit their desired profile.

Furthermore, the club believe that the presence of Antonio Rudiger, Eder Militao, Raul Asencio and David Alaba, leaves Van Dijk with no place in Ancelotti's list of centre-backs. While aware of Van Dijk's immense quality, Real Madrid would rather pursue a younger option capable of leading the team in the long-term future, something that the Liverpool captain is not able to do given his 33 years of age. 

While It is unclear when the proposal was made, Liverpool fans can be reassured by the fact that there is increasing confidence about the Dutchman's chances of continuing with the Premier League side next season. The same cannot be said about Alexander-Arnold and Salah, who look destined to leave the club at the end of the campaign.

 

January 6, 2025