Galatasaray are preparing an ambitious approach for Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk as they seek to strengthen a defence that has struggled for consistency at the start of the season.
The Turkish champions are expected to prioritise a central defender when the January transfer window opens, following a 4-0 defeat by Trabzonspor earlier this month.
Galatasaray interest in Virgil van Dijk could lead to summer move
Turkish reports claim Galatasaray have revived their long-standing interest in Van Dijk, who has reportedly been on their transfer agenda for around two years.
The club would like to explore the possibility of a January deal, although Liverpool are understood to be reluctant to lose their captain midway through the campaign. That could push any serious move towards next summer.
Van Dijk’s current contract is reported to expire at the end of the season, meaning he could negotiate with overseas clubs from January. Liverpool announced his latest extension in April 2025, when he committed his future beyond the 2024-25 campaign.
The 35-year-old remains one of the club’s senior figures and has started the new season as captain under manager Andoni Iraola.
Galatasaray’s plans also carry a potential connection with former Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah. Salah ended his nine-year spell at Anfield during the summer and joined Trabzonspor in August, raising the possibility of Van Dijk following his former team-mate to Turkey.
Liverpool have already lost several experienced figures during a period of change. Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konaté departed in the summer, while Van Dijk now carries increased responsibility within the squad.
Alisson, Joe Gomez and Dominik Szoboszlai have been confirmed as members of the leadership group beneath the captain, but Van Dijk’s departure in January would still leave Liverpool without one of their most influential figures as Iraola reshapes the team.
Galatasaray’s interest is based on the belief that Van Dijk could immediately bring experience and authority to their back line. For Liverpool, the more significant decision may come next summer if the defender is open to a new challenge and the Turkish club can offer a substantial contract.
