Liverpool already have Van Dijk replacement lined up after contract reveal

Liverpool already have their Virgil van Dijk replacement lined up amid doubts about his future, sources have told Football Insider.

The Reds have been putting plans in place to lose their captain for years, and ahead of his contract expiring next summer, their work may already have been done.

The arrival of Jeremy Jacquet this summer was with the long-term future in mind, while forgotten man Giovanni Leoni is also seen as a future starter in their back line.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Liverpool have been targeting the addition of younger centre-backs as replacements for Van Dijk.

There is an acceptance at Anfield that it would be hard to land a like-for-like replacement for the legendary centre-back, but they could develop the next defensive star.

Van Dijk's contract remains up in the air as things stand, and should any of their young stars step up this season, that could influence Liverpool's decision over his future.

Will Liverpool offer Virgil van Dijk a new contract?

Football Insider revealed on 11 September that Liverpool are not planning to offer Van Dijk a new contract until later in the season after assessing his performances under Andoni Iraola.

The 35-year-old's performances have been called into question in recent seasons despite his prominent role in the starting XI, and he must now prove he deserves a new deal.

With Liverpool already planning for a future without Van Dijk, the captain seems to be edging ever-closer to a move away from Anfield.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "No decision has been made either way really on Virgil van Dijk's long-term future.

"But look, Liverpool are planning for life without Van Dijk with the young signings they've made over the last couple of seasons.

"They've signed Jeremy Jacquet, who is coming into the side now, they've got Leoni as well, so they're trying to build for the future with players who can develop at Liverpool.

"As long as Van Dijk is still contributing, he's such a vital part of the team, and he's still the club captain as well so I'm sure they won't be rushing him out the door.

"But there are plans in place for life without him in the side, and these young players are going to have to step up."

What does Andoni Iraola have planned for Van Dijk?

With Liverpool planning for life without Van Dijk, and looking to assess his performances over the coming season before deciding on his future, all eyes are on Iraola.

Football Insider revealed on 13 September that Van Dijk is still seen as a crucial player under Iraola and he is expected to play a key role in the boss' plans for the new season.

His leadership both on the pitch and in the dressing room will be vital for what is an increasingly young group of players at Anfield, while he is still a top-class player.

Should he continue to impress and play a key role under Iraola, there is no reason he would not land a new deal, with Liverpool closely monitoring the situation.