'He's still an attractive player' - Real Madrid set sights on Van Dijk after Liverpool 'update'
Real Madrid have set their sights on a move to sign Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk next summer, sources have told Football Insider.
The 35-year-old has less than a year remaining on his current contract at Anfield, and will become available on a free transfer next summer unless a new deal is agreed.
That has placed a number of clubs across world football on high alert, but given the centre-back's performances so far this season, there is a belief a move to Madrid could be on the cards.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Van Dijk is extremely highly regarded at Real Madrid and a move is now being lined up.
Should Liverpool fail to come forward with a new contract offer, as they continue to weigh up their options, Real Madrid are well-placed to lure him to the Bernabeu.
So far this season, Van Dijk has remained an important part of Andoni Iraola's side, and his continued performances have convinced clubs he can still perform at the highest level.
Could Virgil van Dijk be allowed to leave Liverpool?
Football Insider revealed on 11 September that Liverpool are not planning to hold contract talks with Van Dijk until closer to the end of the season.
In 2025, the centre-back was offered a new deal in the latter stages of the season after Liverpool assessed his performances, and they are now prepared to do the same.
Real Madrid were strong admirers of Van Dijk two years ago, and could now reignite their interest as they prepare to capitalise on his contract situation at Liverpool.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "A lot of the talk around Van Dijk's future depends on what happens with his contract situation.
"If he does become available on a free next summer, Real Madrid and a number of clubs are going to be considering a move for Van Dijk.
"He's coming towards the end of his career, he'll be 36 by the beginning of next season, but he's still a key player for Liverpool and the amount of games he plays is outstanding.
"If Liverpool aren't willing to offer him a new deal for whatever reason, he will be considering his options next summer as a free agent.
"Whether that's Real Madrid or other clubs across Europe or across the world because he still will be an attractive player, especially if he proves that he can still compete at the highest level."
Which other clubs are interested in Van Dijk?
Uncertainty has continued to grow surrounding Van Dijk's long-term future at Liverpool, placing a number of clubs on alert, with Real Madrid far from his only suitors.
Clubs from across world football could be prepared to pounce to lure the centre-back away from Liverpool given his stature, quality and reputation.
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider on 10 September that clubs in Turkey, the Saudi Pro League, and the MLS are all readying offers for Van Dijk.
The Netherlands international has been a long-term target for clubs in the Middle East, having initially plotted moves to lure him in before he penned his most recent deal in 2025.
Big offers could soon be tabled for the legendary centre-back, with clubs hopeful of luring him away from Liverpool amid continued delays over his contract situation.