Liverpool transfers: Richard Hughes closes in on Van Dijk replacement – report
Liverpool are reportedly stepping up their interest in signing Sevilla centre-back Loic Bade as Virgil van Dijk’s successor.
Van Dijk has entered the final year of his contract at Anfield, which has led to questions over his long-term future as he would be able to speak to foreign clubs about a free transfer from January.
According to Fijaches, Liverpool’s Sporting Director Richard Hughes has been stepping up his interest in Bade to try to lure him to the club.
The France international is being seen as the “ideal successor” to Van Dijk, who has been a constant figure in the team since he joined the Premier League giants.
A deal to sign Bade wouldn’t be cheap though, as Sevilla are unwilling to listen to offers below his £50.6million release clause.
Liverpool want Loic Bade as a long-term option
Liverpool see Bade as Van Dijk’s natural long-term successor, even if the Netherlands international does extend his stay with the club.
However, the Reds will face competition in trying to land Bade’s signature as Bayern Munich and PSG are also monitoring him.
A central defender is a priority area for Liverpool to strengthen heading into the 2025 transfer windows, with Bade currently top of the list.
Bade is currently under contract with Sevilla until 2029, which puts the Spanish outfit in a strong negotiating position.
The central defender did spend a period of time in England as he joined Nottingham Forest on loan in 2022.
However, the central defender left the club in January 2023 after failing to make a single appearance.
In other news, Liverpool told £40m bid will seal Bryan Mbeumo deal – sources.
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