Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk has been offered the chance to become the highest-earning defender in the world with a potential move to Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, according to reports.
Van Dijk, who turns 33 in July, is set to enter the final year of his contract this summer. He plans to discuss his future with Liverpool only after Euro 2024, though he has already had informal talks with new Reds boss Arne Slot.
According to MARCA, Van Dijk’s expiring contract has made him an attractive target for Al Nassr, who are keen to strike a deal. Van Dijk’s representatives have reportedly met with Al Nassr’s directors, who are prepared to offer him a record-breaking salary for a defender to entice him to join.
Al Nassr are determined to improve their squad after finishing second in the Saudi Pro League, 14 points behind champions Al Hilal. Club officials are eager to bring in more European stars to close the gap.
In addition to Van Dijk, Juventus goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny has been identified as a potential recruit for a team that already includes Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, Otavio, Marcelo Brozovic, Aymeric Laporte, Talisca, Alex Telles, and David Ospina.
Despite the lucrative offer, Van Dijk has pledged his commitment to Liverpool for the upcoming season, aiming to help the Reds compete for the Premier League title. His immediate focus is on Euro 2024, after which he will join other players with expiring contracts to discuss their futures.
Alongside Van Dijk, right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold and winger Mohamed Salah are also entering the final 12 months of their contracts. Talks regarding their futures have been postponed as Liverpool concentrated on appointing Jurgen Klopp’s successor.
With Slot now at the helm, Liverpool will aim to secure the futures of their key players. However, Saudi Arabian officials are keen to disrupt these plans, with Van Dijk and Salah seen as top transfer priorities in the Middle East.
