Liverpool leaders have drawn up a list of potential names to replace Virgil Van Dijk when the latter leaves Anfield. The Dutchman is in the final year of his contract and despite rumors of a potential renewal, it appears Liverpool's board are preparing for the seven-foot-tall defender's exit.
But who is the main candidate to replace Van Dijk? According to the prestigious CaughtOffside, Liverpool have singled out Sevilla ace Loic Balde among other names on the shortlist. The agents of "The Reds" are already regularly monitoring the 24-year-old to follow his progress. The Frenchman is also on the radar of German giants Bayern Munich.
Balde's contract with Sevilla runs until 2029, and his release clause will require around £42m. However, this amount will increase in the case of a financial fight between several clubs, to secure the card of the Frenchman. In his first season at Sevilla, the player has impressed with his defensive performances, but also with his contributions in the offensive phase. French side PSG are also said to be interested in Loic Balde, but there has yet to be a concrete attempt to bring the player to Paris.
Meanwhile, Liverpool should also think about the contracts of Mo Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold. Both players are in the final year of their contracts, and Liverpool leaders are expected to start negotiations for renewal. Salah has long been rumored for a move to Saudi Arabia, while the player himself has hinted that this will be his last season at Liverpool. Meanwhile, as for Trent Alexander-Arnold, the Englishman's future is still unclear. The player has been linked with a transfer to Real Madrid, but at the moment there is no concrete communication between the parties.
