Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk is set to remain at Anfield this season, with Anfield sources firmly rejecting speculation linking him with moves to AC Milan and Fenerbahce. The Dutch centre-back, who turns 35 this month, is in the second year of a two-year extension he signed in April 2025.
Van Dijk Transfer Rumours Quashed
Reports via TEAMtalk had suggested the Reds were 'prepared to evaluate any serious offer on its merits before making a decision' and no longer regarded their captain as 'untouchable.' However, club sources have dismissed these claims, confirming that Van Dijk is integral to manager Andoni Iraola's plans for the upcoming campaign.
Van Dijk featured in every minute of Premier League action last season and remains a vital presence at Liverpool. The club is preparing for the season ahead with their long-serving captain included, despite significant squad turnover this summer.
Liverpool's Summer Overhaul
Arne Slot departed at the end of the season to make way for Iraola, and the Basque manager is now shaping his squad. He has already secured a deal for Victor Munoz from Osasuna. The Reds have seen exits of Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson, and Ibrahima Konate this summer, while Brazilian goalkeeper Alisson Becker appears set to stay after transfer speculation.
£100m World Cup Star Warned Off
Liverpool and other suitors have been warned they may need to pay around £100 million to secure World Cup star Ayyoub Bouaddi. The 18-year-old Moroccan midfielder has impressed at this summer's tournament, helping his nation reach the quarter-finals.
Bouaddi has three outstanding campaigns with French side Lille behind him and still has three years left on his contract. Clubs including Liverpool, Manchester United, and Arsenal are reportedly interested.
Lille president Olivier Letang told Eurosport: "Many clubs are interested in him, but very few can afford him right now. He's already one of the best midfielders in the world and still has significant room for improvement. He's only 18 and has his whole future ahead of him."
When asked about a valuation, Letang replied: "How to answer that question... Have I spoken, brought up the subject, given a figure? No, never. You have to look at his level. How much have players like (Elliot) Anderson [to Manchester City for £116m] or (Sandro) Tonali [to Tottenham for £100m] been sold for, who are much older, but without room for improvement, so you have an idea of the value of Ayyoub, who has a unique profile at only 18 years old."
Speaking at the World Cup, Bouaddi said: "For the moment I'm only focused on the World Cup, I cannot answer to this right now. I'm really happy to know that some clubs are interested in me but for now I'm here focused on the World Cup with Morocco and we will try to give everything to do our best."
