Real Madrid Eyes Van Dijk for Defensive Reinforcement: “Three or Four More Years at the Top”

Virgil van Dijk’s contract with Liverpool is set to expire this summer, and speculation is growing about a potential move to Real Madrid. The Dutch defender, who could reunite with Trent Alexander-Arnold in Spain, has been tipped to thrive in La Liga.

Real Madrid is facing defensive challenges, worsened by recent injuries to Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba, sidelining them for two to three weeks. This has forced Carlo Ancelotti to reshuffle his backline yet again this season. Although the winter transfer window closed on Monday, the club made significant efforts to secure Trent Alexander-Arnold, but Liverpool refused to negotiate. However, with the Englishman’s contract ending in June, his arrival at the Santiago Bernabéu seems almost certain as Madrid views him as the ideal successor to Dani Carvajal and Lucas Vázquez on the right flank.

Van Dijk Could Join Alexander-Arnold in Madrid

Van Dijk, Liverpool’s current captain under Arne Slot, is in a similar contractual situation. His former Southampton teammate, José Fonte—now playing for Casa Pia in Portugal—believes Van Dijk is ready to perform at the highest level for another “three or four years” and suggested Real Madrid as a perfect fit:
“Van Dijk would flourish at Real Madrid, Barcelona, or Bayern Munich. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him at one of those clubs next season,” Fonte said.

Having shared Southampton’s defense with Van Dijk for two seasons, Fonte is confident in the Dutchman’s form and longevity. “I wouldn’t be surprised to see him in one of these elite clubs because they’re always looking for reliable defenders like Van Dijk. If he reaches the end of the season without a new deal, many top clubs will be watching closely. He’s proven he can maintain peak performance and take care of himself. He won’t have any issues playing at the highest level for another three or four years,” Fonte added.

Fonte also praised Van Dijk as “one of the best defenders in football history,” emphasizing that even if he loses some speed with age, his positioning and anticipation will only improve.

Van Dijk’s Future: Open-Ended
Before the end of last year, Van Dijk hinted at an uncertain future regarding his contract situation with Liverpool:
“We’ll see what the future holds,” he said, while also showing affection for the club: “I love the club, the club loves me. I love the fans, and the fans love me—that’s a great foundation for success.”