Galatasaray are reportedly preparing an ambitious move for Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk, with Ilkay Gundogan viewed as a potential influence in persuading the defender to move to Istanbul.
Van Dijk’s contract at Anfield is due to expire at the end of the season, and Liverpool have not yet decided whether to offer the 35-year-old fresh terms. That uncertainty has opened the door for the Turkish champions to explore a possible deal.
Gundogan link could aid Galatasaray move for Virgil van Dijk
Fotomac reports that Galatasaray have identified Van Dijk as a leading defensive target and believe Gundogan could help them make their case.
The two players are represented by the same agency, ROOF, while Gundogan’s uncle also works for the company. That relationship could provide Galatasaray with an avenue into negotiations should Van Dijk’s future at Liverpool remain unresolved.
Van Dijk is also understood to have been impressed by the atmosphere at Rams Park when Liverpool faced Galatasaray there. Fotomac claims the Turkish club could potentially secure his services for a fee of less than €10 million if Liverpool decide not to extend his contract.
For Galatasaray, signing the Liverpool captain would represent a significant statement. For Liverpool, meanwhile, the interest underlines the consequences of allowing the defender’s situation to remain unsettled.
The club’s decision is complicated by Van Dijk’s importance to the team. He remains Liverpool’s captain and a major presence at the centre of their defence, but he will turn 36 next summer, making the length and value of any new contract an important consideration.
Galatasaray’s interest has also been reported previously. Fotomac said earlier this year that contact had already been made over a possible transfer, while former Galatasaray player Wesley Sneijder encouraged Van Dijk to consider a move to Istanbul.
“If you are thinking of leaving Liverpool, don’t hesitate, go to Galatasaray,” Sneijder reportedly told him.
Liverpool remain in control of Van Dijk’s immediate future, but the longer discussions over a new contract continue, the greater the opportunity for Galatasaray and other interested clubs to pursue the defender.
