Revealed: Virgil Van Dijk’s Secret Contact With Real Madrid Before Liverpool Contract Extension

Revealed: Virgil Van Dijk’s Secret Contact With Real Madrid Before Liverpool Contract Extension

In a twist that could have shocked the football world, Liverpool’s defensive leader Virgil van Dijk reportedly reached out to Real Madrid last season in hopes of securing a dream move to Spain — before ultimately signing a contract extension with Liverpool.

According to reports from Spanish outlet AS, Van Dijk’s entourage made contact with Real Madrid over a potential free transfer, as the Dutchman weighed his options ahead of his contract expiry. The Liverpool star, who had offers from several top clubs including Saudi Arabian giants Al-Hilal, was said to have made Madrid his top priority.

However, Madrid weren’t convinced. Concerns over Van Dijk’s age and his past ACL injury led the Spanish champions to look elsewhere, eventually opting to sign Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth as part of a long-term defensive plan.

With Madrid turning their attention to youth, Van Dijk eventually accepted Liverpool’s two-year contract extension — a move that kept one of the club’s most iconic modern players at Anfield.

A Glorious Era At Liverpool

Van Dijk’s arrival at Liverpool in January 2018 from Southampton — for what was then a world-record fee for a defender — transformed the club’s backline. Since then, he has made over 330 appearances, scoring 30 goals and leading the Reds to incredible success under Jurgen Klopp and now Arne Slot.

From the Champions League triumph in 2019 to the Premier League title in 2020, Van Dijk became the symbol of Liverpool’s modern dominance. His leadership, calm presence, and reading of the game redefined what it means to be a modern defender.

His individual accolades include being crowned UEFA Men’s Player of the Year (2018–19) and finishing second to Lionel Messi in the 2019 Ballon d’Or race — rare recognition for a defender in the modern era.

Liverpool’s Recent Struggles Put Van Dijk Under Fire

Despite his legendary status, recent performances have raised questions about Van Dijk’s form and leadership. Liverpool’s promising start to the season has unraveled into a rough patch, with six losses in seven games across competitions.

Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney recently criticized Van Dijk’s body language and leadership, saying:

“They’ve signed new deals, but I don’t think Van Dijk and Salah have really led that team this season.”

Liverpool fans are now hoping their captain can rediscover his confidence and restore stability at the back — especially with tough fixtures ahead.

Real Madrid Move: What Could Have Been

Meanwhile, Real Madrid have been flying under Xabi Alonso, leading La Liga by five points and boasting the league’s best defensive record. The signing of Dean Huijsen appears to have paid off, as Los Blancos have conceded just 10 goals all season.

Had Madrid taken the gamble on Van Dijk, football’s defensive landscape might have looked very different. Still, the Dutchman’s story at Liverpool continues — a tale of resilience, legacy, and loyalty in an ever-shifting sports market.