AC Milan 'launches new Virgil van Dijk transfer plan' as Liverpool exit ruled out

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AC Milan is said to have launched a new Virgil van Dijk transfer plan with a Liverpool exit ruled out for this summer, but his contract only running until the end of 2026/27Virgil van Dijk during the Netherlands' eventual World Cup defeat to Morocco. (Image: Eric Verhoeven/Soccrates/Getty Images)While Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk won't be going anywhere this summer, despite some speculation last week that there was interest from Italy and Turkiye, but his contract at Anfield only runs until next year.Van Dijk, who turned 35 on Wednesday, remains one of the best defenders around, and he played every minute that mattered for Liverpool last season under Arne Slot.With very young options around him, including $83 million (£60 million) man Jeremy Jacquet and the very highly-rated 19-year-old talent Giovanni Leoni, Van Dijk's experience at the back will be vital for Andoni Iraola too.But according to La Gazetta dello Sport, after realizing a deal would be impossible this summer, AC Milan is hoping to sign Van Dijk as a free agent in a year's time.A few days ago, there were links with a move to Italy this summer, but those were quickly dismissed.

While Van Dijk has only a limited time remaining on his existing contract, though, there will be links with moves elsewhere.Last week, he posted an emotional message on social media following the Netherlands' early exit at the World Cup at the hands of Morocco — with Ronald Koeman having resigned and Slot a candidate to take over.Virgil van Dijk signed a new deal with Liverpool in 2025(Image: Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)"As captain, all I ever wanted was to make this country proud," Van Dijk wrote. We saw you, and we felt your support every step of the way."Reds legend John Barnes is very keen for Van Dijk to stay beyond the end of his existing deal.Get Liverpool's new 2026/27 home kitThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it.

Learn moreLiverpool FC have launched their new home kit for the 2026/27, inspired by iconic adidas strip worn during the club's 1989/90 title-winning campaign."I'd like to see Virgil’s contract being extended because for Iraola, he'll need his senior players," Barnes told Betfred. "Those that have been around the block and know the club... so I think it’s important that we keep a hold of Virgil next season."Liverpool.com says: A move to Serie A, where the pace is slower, could work out one day for Van Dijk, who should still have a long time left in his career.For now, though, as Barnes says, he remains hugely important for Liverpool.