Liverpool ready to splash €60 million on new Virgil van Dijk

With captain Virgil Van Dijk likely to exit the peak of his career in the coming years, the Reds have already begun their hunt to find a defensive colossus for the future. Sevilla's Loic Bade has been targeted as a potential candidate, as - according to reports by 'Fichajes' - Liverpool sporting director, Richard Hughes, has put the Frenchman under his radar, showing "persistent interest" in the player. 

Bade's career trajectory has been quite different from that of the Dutch stalwart. After transferring from Stade Rennais, and failing to make any appearances in his stint at Nottigham Forest, he joined La Liga side Sevilla in the 2022/23 season. His consistent performances, as well as contributions to the Spanish side's Europa League victory, have allowed him to cement his place in Sevilla's defensive department.

Bade currently counts 63 appearances in just over two seasons at the club. His ability to win tackles on the ground and in the air might result compatible with the Premier League's elevated physical demands. That said, the 24-year-old's lack of experience in the Premier League - as opposed to Van Dijk, who became familiar in his time at Southampton - might be a reason to stall on any rushed decision for the Reds. 

Should Liverpool move forward with negotiations, the club will look to splash €60 million on the player due to his release clause, which in comparisons to Van Dijk's fee of €85 is relatively cheaper. However, securing Bade will not be easy for the Reds as they will have to face stiff competitions from giants like Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain.