According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool has indeed engaged in discussions with Saudi clubs regarding Virgil van Dijk’s transfer. However, Liverpool has set a price tag of €55 million for van Dijk, and the Saudi representatives have stated that this figure far exceeds their expectations, threatening to withdraw from negotiations unless the price is reduced.
Following the conclusion of the European Championship and the Netherlands’ failure to reach the final, van Dijk has shown an openness to playing in the Saudi league. It is understood that van Dijk’s team also met with Saudi representatives to understand the terms being offered.
In an interview, van Dijk indicated that he needs to carefully consider his future: “This summer, I need to carefully evaluate my situation at Liverpool, as well as recover quickly from our disappointing performance at the European Championship as a national team member. We’ve gone through a lot over the past year.”
Liverpool is open to van Dijk’s departure but, with his contract having one year remaining, they are seeking a transfer fee of €55 million. The Saudi representatives do not agree with this valuation, stating that they will pull out of negotiations if the price is not lowered.
The newly appointed sporting director at Liverpool, Hughes, opposes the departures of van Dijk, Salah, and Alexander-Arnold: “We want them all to continue playing for Liverpool in the new season.” Despite their dissatisfaction with the price, the Saudis are unwilling to give up on van Dijk and may pursue him again in the winter should these talks fail.