Virgil van Dijk emerges as Milan target as Liverpool open door to talks

Liverpool are reportedly willing to hold talks with AC Milan over a potential summer move for Virgil van Dijk, although the defender’s salary remains a major obstacle.

According to Tuttomercatoweb journalist Enzo Bucchioni, Milan are exploring whether a deal can be structured for the 34-year-old, who has entered the final year of his Liverpool contract.

The operation is described as extremely difficult, but not impossible.

Van Dijk’s contract situation has created uncertainty around his future at Anfield, with no indication so far that an extension is close.

That has encouraged interest from abroad. Galatasaray have previously been linked with the Netherlands international, while Milan are now said to be working on a possible deal as part of their major summer rebuild.

The key development is Liverpool’s reported willingness to discuss the situation.

“Work is now underway on Van Dijk, a brilliant idea from Ibrahimovic,” Bucchioni reported.

“Liverpool are ready to sit down for talks; we’re monitoring developments and exploring ways to spread the salary over time.”

For Liverpool, the decision is complicated. Van Dijk remains an influential figure, but his age and contract status mean this summer could represent their final opportunity to receive a significant transfer fee.

The biggest barrier is not necessarily reaching an agreement with Liverpool.

Van Dijk reportedly earns around €15 million per year, a salary considered beyond Milan’s current structure. The Italian club must therefore find a way to make the financial package work.

One possibility would be spreading the cost of the contract over a longer period, but that would still require cooperation from the defender.

Van Dijk may ultimately need to accept a lower annual salary if he wants to move to San Siro. His wages have also reportedly complicated interest from Türkiye.

Milan believe his leadership and experience could make him the defensive figurehead of their rebuild, but the financial gap remains significant.

Milan are expected to continue exploring the numbers before deciding whether to make a formal move.

Liverpool’s reported willingness to hold discussions gives the Italian club an opportunity, but Van Dijk’s salary and personal intentions will determine whether negotiations can progress.

A transfer is far from straightforward. However, with the defender entering the final year of his contract, his future is likely to remain a major talking point throughout the summer.

Should Liverpool consider selling Van Dijk this summer, or keep their captain for the final year of his contract?