Virgil van Dijk remains one of Liverpool’s greatest players and, even at 35, continues to be regarded as a world-class centre-back.
However, with the Dutchman entering the final stage of his Liverpool contract, questions remain over whether he will extend his stay. Sporting director Julian Ward has a major decision to make, with Van Dijk previously revealing that no talks over a new deal had begun.
Liverpool appear to have already planned for the future, though. Jeremy Jacquet has impressed since his £60m move from Rennes, while teenage defender Ifeanyi Ndukwe is being tipped as a potential long-term successor to Van Dijk.
The 6ft 6in Austrian joined Liverpool for £2.6m but is currently on loan at Levante after failing to secure a UK work permit. Ndukwe impressed during pre-season and has been praised for his aerial dominance and composure in possession, earning comparisons to Van Dijk.
If his development continues, Ndukwe could eventually return to Anfield ready to step into the veteran defender’s role when Van Dijk finally calls time on his Liverpool career.