Virgil van Dijk remains one of Liverpool\u2019s greatest players and, even at 35, continues to be regarded as a world-class centre-back.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Liverpool appear to have already planned for the future, though. Jeremy Jacquet has impressed since his \u00a360m move from Rennes, while teenage defender Ifeanyi Ndukwe is being tipped as a potential long-term successor to Van Dijk.<\/p>\n
The 6ft 6in Austrian joined Liverpool for \u00a32.6m 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.<\/p>\n
If his development continues, Ndukwe could eventually return to Anfield ready to step into the veteran defender\u2019s role when Van Dijk finally calls time on his Liverpool career.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"