Galatasaray is closing in on Virgil van Dijk after a crucial update from former player Ömer Bayram. The Dutch defender’s reaction to the club’s recent success has added fresh momentum to the potential move. With the new season just around the corner, the race to land the Liverpool star is heating up.

How did Van Dijk react to Galatasaray’s success?

Speaking to Libero TV, Ömer Bayram revealed Van Dijk’s response to Galatasaray’s championship scenes on social media. The Dutch international reportedly asked, "Is this what you experience in a title-winning season?" after seeing the images. Bayram’s reply was direct: "One day you’ll come play here." The comments suggest Van Dijk is already picturing himself in the iconic yellow-and-red.

Where does the transfer stand now?

Bayram confirmed talks with Van Dijk about a possible switch to Galatasaray are progressing. "Everything we’ve discussed about Galatasaray has been positive. I can’t say if we’ve spoken recently..." he noted, keeping the details under wraps. With Galatasaray scoring 77 goals and conceding 30 in the 2025-26 season, the urgency to bolster the defense is clear.

What’s the hold-up with the transfer?

A major factor is the expected change to TFF’s 10+4 foreign-player rule, which could unlock moves like Van Dijk’s. Galatasaray finished the 2025-26 campaign three points clear of Fenerbahçe, leaving little room for error in the transfer market.

Is Beşiktaş also in the mix?

Rival reports claim Beşiktaş is also pushing hard for Van Dijk’s signature. Sources suggest the Black-and-Whites are nearing a deal. Galatasaray’s recent form reads three wins and two losses in the last five games, adding pressure on the club to act fast.

Van Dijk has made 374 appearances for Liverpool since 2017-18, contributing 36 goals and 16 assists. Galatasaray’s last result was a 1-0 win over Kasımpaşa on May 17, 2026, as the club reshapes its squad for the new campaign.