Virgil van Dijk targeted for shock move in major blow to Liverpool

Liverpool could be dealt another major blow after reports emerged linking Virgil van Dijk with a shock move away.

There has already been plenty of changes at Anfield following the conclusion of the 2025/26 season, with Arne Slot sacked and replaced by former Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola.

On top of that, Mo Salah, Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate have all departed on free transfers.

But Liverpool skipper Van Dijk is also being targeted in a surprise swoop, according to reports in Turkey.

As per Turkish journalist Yagiz Sabuncuoglu, Galatasaray are looking to make series moves in the upcoming transfer window and have their eyes set on Van Dijk.

The transfer window doesn't open until June 15 and it's claimed that the Turkish giants are poised to make an official offer for the 34-year-old.

Sabuncuoglu is quoted as saying: "Galatasaray hasn’t made a move for Virgil Van Dijk yet. I expect some movement after June 15th. Galatasaray is considering making an official offer.”

Sabuncuoglu also reported on Galatasaray holding interest in Bernardo Silva, though he looks set to sign for Real Madrid on a free transfer after leaving Manchester City.

They also looking at Can Uzun of Eintracht Frankfurt in another attempt to strengthen their squad.

READ MORE: Liverpool 'agree personal terms' with England World Cup star in genius move

But going all out for Van Dijk is undoubtedly the biggest statement of intent from Galatasaray, with Fotomac also claiming that Van Dijk is "top of their list" and reporting that "meetings will continue".

It would, however, appear extremely unlikely.

Van Dijk is currently preparing to captain Netherlands at the World Cup, kicking off their campaign against Japan on Sunday.

Liverpool have worrying situation at centre-back as Virgil van Dijk move mooted

Konate's departure to Real Madrid means Real are extremely light at centre-back, with Van Dijk and Joe Gomez the only real senior options for the position.

19-year-old Giovanni Leoni is set to return from an ACL tear on his debut last season, while Rennes' talent Jeremy Jacquet is joining the ranks.

Liverpool have been linked with a slew of central defenders, including Burnley defender Maxime Esteve.

There are even reports indicating that Liverpool are looking to bring back former star Jarell Quansah to help solve their issues.

The England international signed for Bayer Leverkusen last summer but the club have the option to buy him back for £55 million thanks to a clause inserted in the deal.

A report from the ECHO claims that Quansah has agreed personal terms to head back to Merseyside for a second stint, having come through the Liverpool academy system.