Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk faces scrutiny over his future at Anfield as new manager Andoni Iraola begins his tenure. Former England international Chris Waddle has questioned whether the Dutch defender will feature prominently this season, citing defensive frailties that saw Liverpool concede 53 Premier League goals last term—their highest in a 38-game campaign.
Van Dijk's Role Under Scrutiny
Waddle, speaking to OLBG, highlighted central defence as Liverpool's key weakness. “Last year, while many pointed to tactics, I believe the real issue was the middle of the defence. If they can strengthen that, there's no reason why Liverpool can't challenge again this season,” he said. The 33-year-old Van Dijk, who has one year left on his contract, has been linked with AC Milan and Turkish clubs, though Liverpool have denied exit reports.
Waddle added: “He’s not going to get any quicker. He’s always read the game well and has always been technically sound. But when you lose that yard of pace, it's difficult in the Premier League.” Despite this, he acknowledged Van Dijk's influence: “Van Dijk obviously still has a big influence on the Liverpool squad, so you might keep him for another year and use him in specific games.”
PSG's Stance on Bradley Barcola
Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain have set a £130 million price tag for winger Bradley Barcola, a reported Liverpool target. According to The Athletic, PSG are “realistic” about Barcola's situation: the 23-year-old has two years left on his contract and is not a regular starter, suggesting he may be open to a move. Barcola, who featured for France in their World Cup semi-final exit, is one of four alternatives to Yan Diomande, who is expected to join PSG.
Arsenal have also been linked with Barcola but are favouring a move for Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers. Liverpool have yet to make significant summer signings beyond Jeremy Jacquet and Victor Munoz, but transfer activity may accelerate after the World Cup. The Reds are preparing for a pre-season tour of the United States, facing Sunderland, Wrexham, and Leeds.
