da poker： Today’s Liverpool transfer roundup looks at the three hottest stories doing the rounds. Virgil van Dijk plays down talks of a new deal, Jurgen Klopp seeks a replacement for James Milner and Liverpool join the race for Fabian Ruiz after he helped Napoli beat the Reds in the Champions League.
Van Dijk plays down contract talks
da cassino： Report: Sky Sports reports that van Dijk has quelled claims of a new contract with Liverpool, telling them “there is nothing going on” and then stating when asked again about an extension; “that’s not on me. I saw some reports in the media that I was agreeing a new deal and stuff.”
The 28-year-old’s current deal runs out in 2023 after putting pen to paper in late 2017 when he signed from Southampton. However, a new deal for the Dutchman is not on the cards just yet according to Sky Sports and the defender himself.
Verdict: Liverpool fans shouldn’t be worried about this. Van Dijk seems settled after helping Liverpool win the Champions League, and it’s tough to imagine why he would want to leave after lifting such a prestigious trophy and now helping the club once again challenge for the Premier League.
There is also the obvious fact that van Dijk’s current deal does not end until 2023, so there is little reason to be concerned – Liverpool have plenty of time to work on extending his stay at Anfield. The ex-Southampton man may not sign a new deal anytime soon, but fans should be calm about his future.
How likely is a deal? 7/10 – eventually!
Klopp eyes Cook as a replacement for Milner
Report: According to Football Insider, Liverpool have reignited their interest in Lewis Cook after his return to action last week against Everton. The 22-year-old was a target for Klopp before he ruptured his ACL back in December, and now the report claims the Reds are keeping a close eye on him as they seek a replacement for James Milner. The Liverpool no.7 turns 34 in January and with his contract set to expire at the end of the season, the European champions are continuing to scout Cook as his successor.
Verdict: Cook put himself amongst England’s brightest young talents two years ago, helping the Cherries finish 12th and subsequently earning his Three Lions debut in May 2018. Now, after playing just 14 times since December 2018 because of the injury, the ex-Leeds star will need to work his way back into the national setup and try to catch the eye of top clubs like Liverpool once again.
Cook could be an astute replacement for Milner – at least in terms of being a central midfielder – as he is both young and already established as a Premier League regular, fitness permitting, with 49 top flight outings under his belt already. Whether this means he will sign remains to be seen, as Milner could still be offered a new deal and Cook may see it fit to stay at Bournemouth where he has a greater chance of starting week-in, week-out. For a young player returning from injury, game-time is inevitably crucial.
How likely is a deal? 6/10
Reds join race for Ruiz
Report: As per the Daily Mail, Liverpool are keeping tabs on Napoli man Fabian Ruiz along with Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona. The 23-year-old has been a regular for Carlo Ancelotti and with his performances so far this season – which includes a helping hand in beating Liverpool – the Spanish star has caught the eyes of the European heavyweights.
Verdict: Ruiz is clearly a wanted man and with Barcelona midfielders Ivan Rakatic, Arturo Vidal and Sergio Busquets all in their thirties, whilst Madrid star Luka Modric is 34, a bidding war for his services could break out between the Spanish giants in coming transfer windows.
As alluded to in the Cook report, however, Liverpool are themselves after a replacement for Milner. But considering Ruiz is from Spain and broke into the national squad this summer, a move to Barcelona or Madrid would be more likely than moving to England.
How likely is a deal 4/10