Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk is entering the final year of his contract with the club.
The Dutch center-back has been a key player during Liverpool’s successful period under former manager Jurgen Klopp. Van Dijk’s arrival was transformative for the team, significantly raising their overall performance.
With his contract set to expire next year and no decision yet on a renewal, Liverpool are preparing for life without him. According to *Fichajes*, the Premier League side has identified Sevilla’s Loïc Badé as a potential replacement.
The 24-year-old French defender has a £50.6m (€60m) release clause, which Liverpool are reportedly willing to activate next year. However, they may face competition from Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich for his signature.
Liverpool see Badé as a “serious option” to replace Van Dijk. Badé, who previously had a loan spell with Nottingham Forest without making an appearance, has impressed Arne Slot’s side with his solid performances and youthful potential.
He helped France secure a silver medal at the Olympics by keeping four clean sheets in five starts and contributed to Sevilla’s Europa League victory.
Should Liverpool pursue their interest, Badé will have the chance to prove himself in the Premier League after his unsuccessful stint with Nottingham Forest.
Replacing Van Dijk won’t be easy, but the French defender will be eager to take on the challenge and succeed in England.
