Shock transfer to Italian big club

Just days after a bitter World Cup exit, the Liverpool captain could be facing one of the summer’s most surprising transfers. A European giant has made him its number one target – and the hunt is already underway.

While the Premier League clubs have been in high gear with both entrances and exits, Liverpool have already secured Spanish international Víctor Muñoz from Osasuna for €40 million (£34.6 million). But Anfield could still be facing an even bigger drama – not in the form of a new signing, but in the form of an unexpected farewell.

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AC Milan have Virgil van Dijk at the top of their wish list

According to Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport , AC Milan have made Van Dijk their top priority transfer this summer. Having already secured Gonçalo Ramos at the striker position, the club’s advisor Zlatan Ibrahimović and owner representative Gerry Cardinale have now turned their attention to the defence.

And Ibrahimović is said to have been crystal clear: Van Dijk is the man he wants.

One year left on his contract – and a price tag that could surprise

The Dutchman, who was recently knocked out of the World Cup after a penalty shootout against Morocco, has just one year left on his Liverpool deal – having signed a new contract as recently as April last year.

The short remaining contract run could make him available for a surprisingly low sum. Transfer portal Transfermarkt currently values the 34-year-old at around £12.8 million – a price that could tempt Milan to test Liverpool.

Salary and willingness – the biggest obstacles

The big question is, however, whether Van Dijk himself wants the transfer – and whether Milan can meet his wage level. If he is to go to the San Siro, he will in all likelihood become one of the club’s highest paid players.

At the same time, it seems unlikely that Liverpool will let go of their captain without a fight – especially not after Ibrahima Konaté has already left the club for Real Madrid.

Milan has a plan B – with a well-known name

If Van Dijk becomes too expensive or difficult to get, Milan already have an option ready: Gonçalo Inacio.

The 25-year-old made 46 appearances for Sporting CP last season, keeping 19 clean sheets and is currently on World Cup duty for Portugal. He is likely to cost more in transfer fees – around £25-34 million – but demand a much lower wage.

Ironically, Inacio has been heavily linked with Liverpool in recent years, but a transfer has never materialised. Now he could instead end up as Van Dijk’s replacement – at Milan.

One thing is for sure: the summer transfer drama is far from over, and Anfield could be facing one of the most surprising farewells in years.

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