Virgil van Dijk has been named in a fresh transfer rumour that sees him linked with a move to AC Milan as his Liverpool contract enters its final year, a story that surfaced in early July 2026.
What is the rumour about?
Italian reports claim that new Milan manager Paulo Fonseca (formerly Amorim) has placed the Dutch centre‑back at the top of his target list. The speculation suggests Van Dijk could join Christian Pulisic and Luka Modrić at the San Siro, forming a high‑profile defensive trio. No fee has been disclosed, but Milan insiders say the club is prepared to meet Liverpool’s valuation if the player is available.
How does Liverpool respond?
The Liverpool Echo has dismissed the story, insisting the club intends to keep its captain for the upcoming season. However, the Reds have already seen Jurgen Klopp and Arne Slot depart, and senior figures such as Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson have left. With Ibrahima Konaté now at Real Madrid, Van Dijk stands as one of the few remaining pillars of the previous era, often acting as a mentor to interim manager Javier Iraola.
What does the contract situation mean?
Van Dijk’s deal runs out at the end of the 2026‑27 campaign, putting him in the “final‑year” bracket that typically triggers interest from other clubs. The same situation applies to Joe Gomez, who admitted in May that he is unsure of his future with only a year left on his contract. Losing both defenders would leave Liverpool’s backline dangerously thin, forcing the club to rely on youngsters Jeremy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni for cover.
Are other positions under pressure?
The midfield is also in flux. Curtis Jones is entering the last year of his deal and has attracted interest from Inter Milan, who value him at roughly £22 million against Liverpool’s £35 million tag. Wataru Endo, the Japanese international, also faces a contract expiry in summer. Meanwhile, Harvey Elliott returns from a loan at Aston Villa with his long‑term future still undecided after a £50 million price tag was placed on him by Liverpool last winter.
What could happen next?
If Milan move forward, Van Dijk would become the first Dutch defender to join the Rossoneri since Wesley Sneijder left in 2019. A transfer would reshape both clubs: Liverpool would need to accelerate its defensive recruitment, while Milan would add a World‑Cup‑winning centre‑back to a backline that struggled for consistency last season. Until a formal offer is made, the story remains speculative, but the timing of the contract deadline ensures the rumor will dominate headlines throughout the summer transfer window.