Galatasaray have reportedly opened discussions to sign Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk, according to Turkish media. The 34-year-old Dutch center-back, whose contract with the Premier League side runs until 2027, has emerged as the top target for the Süper Lig giants as they aim to bolster their defensive line.
The Istanbul club’s board is eager to strengthen the backline with a world-class defender, and Van Dijk is believed to be the primary name on their transfer list. Talks are underway, with Galatasaray hoping to finalize the move before the World Cup, although the experienced defender is said to prefer focusing on the tournament first. Club president Dursun Özbek is reportedly a long-time admirer of Van Dijk, while Real Madrid’s Antonio Rüdiger is also being considered as an alternative.
Van Dijk, who joined Liverpool from Southampton in 2018 for a then-record €85 million, has enjoyed a stellar career, winning the UEFA Champions League and serving as captain for both Liverpool and the Netherlands national team. His market value has since dropped from a peak of €100 million to around €18 million, but his leadership and experience remain highly sought after.
A move to Turkey would mark a new chapter for the Dutch international, who has spent the bulk of his top-level career in the Premier League. Galatasaray fans are already buzzing at the prospect of seeing one of Europe’s finest defenders in the Süper Lig.
