Liverpool had a decent summer transfer window before the start of the current season but if they are able to qualify for the Champions League next season, they might have one of the most exciting transfer windows in recent times in the club history.
The manager is looking to improve on almost every area in the squad and the centre-back partnership is something Jurgen Klopp is sure to improve on this summer. Lucas Leiva and Ragnar Klavan have not been dependable backups for Dejan Lovren, who himself has not been in great form. Joel Matip has been decent and might keep his place in the first team next season. And according to reports today, Jurgen Klopp is convinced that Southampton star Virgil van Dijk is the right man to partner Matip in the first team next season.
Having moved to the St Marys from Celtic back in 2015, Van Dijk cemented a place in the first team in his first season in England and has now established himself as one of the best in the country. He is currently injured and might not play anymore this season but is still wanted by every big club in England.
Known for his strength and dominance in the air, Van Dijk is a genuine centre-half who hates opponents playing in front of him. He does not lunge into tackles but is always a step ahead of the game, looking to steal the ball from his rivals to set up his team in attack.
But he is also capable of sitting back and soaking up the pressure to frustrate the opponents. This is something Liverpool have missed this season. For example, in the recent game against Palace, Dejan Lovren was at fault as he committed himself to an attacking move, making him vulnerable to a long ball in behind. Christian Benteke’s smart run was all it needed for Palace to get one back and Van Dijk will definitely solve this problem.
He is always at the top of his game and is looking for every chance to showcase his strength and he is sure to make Liverpool a stronger unit defensively. The Reds lack genuine strength in the air and have faltered at set pieces this season. The 25-year old will solve this problem as well and will help them at both ends of the field.
It is reported that he is valued at £50m and Liverpool will have to break their transfer record, for the second consecutive summer, if they are to land Van Dijk at the end of the season. But if there is a player who deserves breaking the club record, he is Van Dijk. Solving the most impending issues at the club, Van Dijk could be more influential than a star who can score 20 goals a season for Liverpool. Do you think Liverpool should go all in for Van Dijk?
