Galatasaray are preparing to make a move for Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk in the January transfer window. The 35-year-old centre-back's contract expires next summer, allowing him to negotiate with other clubs from the start of 2027.
The club's management has decided to focus on strengthening the defence following recent heavy results. Sitting second in the Süper Lig standings with 13 points from 6 games, Galatasaray conceded four goals in a 4-0 defeat to Trabzonspor in their last match. The team has let in 10 goals in the first six weeks of the season. This performance has accelerated the search for a new defensive leader, with Davinson Sanchez and Abdülkerim Bardakcı struggling for form. A player of Van Dijk's experience could bring significant stability to the current squad.
VAN DIJK'S SITUATION
Virgil van Dijk has played every minute of Liverpool's six competitive matches this season. The player was described as "maintaining his form without losing anything." Liverpool may be reluctant to sell a regular starter in January, especially one who continues to play every minute and whose stats show he remains influential. In that case, Galatasaray could aim for a pre-contract agreement with the player for the end of the season.
SALAH FACTOR
The summer transfer of Van Dijk's former teammate Mohamed Salah to Trabzonspor is another notable point. Van Dijk had stated he "missed Salah a lot" after his departure. Salah's adaptation to Turkey could serve as a positive reference point for Van Dijk.
Galatasaray invested in their attack during the summer window but now want to reinforce midfield and defence. The club's interest in Van Dijk has persisted for two years, and the management plans to turn it into concrete steps in January.
Galatasaray continue their league campaign at home against Kasımpaşa on 9 October. The outcome of the Van Dijk operation will become clearer following that fixture.
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