Liverpool plan to reignite move for Van Dijk replacement - 'He is the perfect option'
Liverpool are planning to reignite their long-term interest in Inter Milan star Alessandro Bastoni in next summer's window.
The 27-year-old has been on the radar at Anfield for a number of years, but they have never been able to lure him away from his boyhood club, and could now try again.
This comes amid doubts about Virgil van Dijk's long-term future at the club, with work ongoing in the background to identify replacements who could step in next year.
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Liverpool view Bastoni as the "perfect option" to strengthen their defensive line next summer.
The Italy international has a wealth of experience on the biggest stage and has captained his side on a number of occasions, with his leadership seen as a valuable asset.
Bastoni is extremely highly regarded, not just at Liverpool but across world football, and could be the ideal choice to replace Van Dijk should a new contract not be agreed.
Could Liverpool make a move for Alessandro Bastoni?
Football Insider revealed earlier this year that Liverpool are strong admirers of Bastoni but would need to part with a "huge" fee to lure him away from Inter Milan.
The 26-year-old is set to be chased by several of Europe's top clubs if he becomes available in the market, but it will likely take a bid in excess of £80million to lure him away.
Inter Milan have always been determined to keep hold of their star centre-back, but Liverpool know they will have to go big in their efforts to replace Van Dijk.
"Bastoni is somebody who has impressed me whenever I've seen him play," Brown told Football Insider.
"He's a throwback to the old-school Italian centre-backs, he's not afraid to get stuck in and do the dirty work, and he's a real leader at the back which is always great to have.
"He's got plenty of experience from his time at Inter Milan, but maybe he will feel the time has come for a new challenge away from Italy.
"Liverpool have been long-term admirers of his, we've spoken about that before I think, so there is every chance they could reignite that interest, especially if they lose Van Dijk.
"He is the perfect option if you're looking for a Van Dijk replacement because of the experience, leadership and defensive qualities that he has.
"So if they decide to let Van Dijk go, they don't have to look much further than Bastoni for his replacement if they can get a deal done."
What is the latest on Virgil van Dijk's future?
Liverpool's reignited interest in Bastoni comes amid growing doubts about Van Dijk's long-term future and whether he could be allowed to leave Anfield next summer.
The Reds' captain has less than a year remaining on his current contract, and talks have yet to take place about a renewal, sparking a belief that he could be allowed to leave.
Brown told Football Insider on 23 September that Liverpool could be prepared to let Van Dijk go, with work already ongoing in the background to identify a replacement.
He remains a crucial part of Iraola's starting XI for now, but concerns about his age and the club's long-term plans mean no decision has been made yet.
It has been suggested that the club are edging towards letting him go, however, adding to the uncertainty and forcing them to prepare for his departure.