Van Dijk’s demands
Virgil van Dijk is demanding a pay increase at Liverpool, triggering fears on Merseyside that the Dutch defender could leave if he doesn’t get a better offer.
The Sun claims that the 27-year-old, who arrived on a five-and-a-half-year deal from Southampton in January 2018, wants to see his current wage of £125,000-a-week bolstered considerably next season.
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Van Dijk would be among Liverpool’s top earners if he gets his way - and that seems likely, given that the Reds are aware that both Real Madrid and Barcelona have been sniffing around the Dutchman of late.
ESPN adds that the Ballon d’Or contender wants a new contract and is “already enthusiastic about further solidifying his commitment to the Champions League winners”.
Double Dutch
The Daily Star says that the Reds are continuing to stalk Matthijs de Ligt as the Ajax captain ponders his future.
The 19-year-old central defender is being eyed up by Liverpool, Barcelona, Manchester United and Bayern Munich.
Latest reports from Holland suggest that Liverpool’s Champions League triumph could be a game changer.
Madd for it
James Maddison is considering his options, with the 22-year-old attracting interest in various quarters following his impressive debut season for Leicester City, according to talkSPORT.
Maddison arrived at the Foxes in a £20m deal from Norwich last summer, and his assured displays have caught the eye of Manchester United, Tottenham and Liverpool.
The broadcaster says that Liverpool’s attacking football would suit Maddison, with Jurgen Klopp reportedly keen on the playmaker amid criticisms that the Reds’ midfield “lacked creativity” last season.
Cardiff keeper linked
FourFourTwo report that Liverpool have “made an enquiry” about the availability of Cardiff City goalkeeper Neil Etheridge.
No formal approach has been tabled for the Bluebirds gloveman as yet, but Liverpool boss Klopp has had his scouts checking out the Philippines international in recent months.
Moreno to the Emirates?
Described by talkSPORT as a “Liverpool flop”, Alberto Moreno could be bound for north London this summer.
The broadcaster is one of several outlets claiming that the Spanish defender is being tailed by Unai Emery, who is “keen on him”.
The pair were together at Sevilla, and the Arsenal boss is said to view the left-back as the man to replace the ageing Nacho Monreal.
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