Liverpool chiefs' plan to replace Virgil van Dijk could hit key rival where it hurts

Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes could get one over on rivals Manchester City if his reported transfer plan comes to fruition. The Reds are believed to be keeping tabs on Marc Guehi ahead of next summer, when Virgil van Dijk has suggested he could call time on his successful chapter at Anfield.

Van Dijk has made more than 250 appearances for the Reds since completing a big-money move from Southampton in 2018. But this campaign will be his final farewell unless he and Liverpool agree on a contract extension.

“What happens? Let’s see, but I’m very calm about my situation,” said the Dutchman who, as it stands, will become a free agent next summer.

“There’s no reason for me to think about something else because I have the whole season to play. Whatever happens now, Anfield has a special place in my heart. And it’s been successful.”

Whoever steps into Van Dijk’s shoes will need huge talent and the ability to perform under significant pressure. According to The Independent, Liverpool have earmarked Guehi as a centre-back target and could make a move for him next year.

The 24-year-old was England’s surprise package at Euro 2024 as his stellar performances en route to the final saw his stock skyrocket. Newcastle United went all out to sign him this summer but even a £70million package wasn’t enough to sway Crystal Palace.

The race for Guehi’s signature is expected to heat up in 2025, when he will have just one year left to run on his deal at Selhurst Park. And Liverpool won’t be the only team in the hunt.

Newcastle could yet go back in for Eddie Howe’s top defensive target, while The Daily Mail report that Liverpool’s fierce Premier League rivals, Man City, have also checked up on Guehi’s availability.

Liverpool beating City to the punch would be a huge boost for manager Arne Slot, as it would not only bolster his own back-line by replacing Van Dijk with a player capable of stepping up to the plate, but it would also weaken one of their main title rivals.

Many expected City and Arsenal to be in a straight fight for the Premier League crown this season. But Slot has proved that his Liverpool side are not to be messed with, winning each of their first three matches by a comfortable margin, including an emphatic 3-0 triumph at Old Trafford on Sunday.