Liverpool faces major blow as Saudi giants and PSG fight for a key star | OneFootball

Liverpool is in the air. Al-Hilal has made a massive bid for the star defender, over €20 million annually being quoted. But Van Dijk has not yet responded, as he remains focused on the Carabao Cup final against Newcastle on Sunday. Meanwhile, the Dutch center-back was seen having a lengthy conversation with PSG officials following Liverpool's Champions League exit, fueling rumors of the French club's interest. Having two years left on his contract, Van Dijk can sign a pre-contract deal with any other club, effectively leaving Liverpool on a free transfer in June.

Van Dijk isn't the only Liverpool star who might leave

Liverpool is concerned about Van Dijk's future but also has some of its other key players edging towards the end of their contracts. Trent Alexander-Arnold, a target of Real Madrid, could be departing in the next window. Mohamed Salah, the team's star attacker, is a priority target for Saudi Arabian clubs, with fresh offers set to follow. If all three depart, Liverpool could be witnessing one of the biggest squad overhauls in recent times.

Al-Hilal under Jorge Jesus have been the most ambitious of all clubs in the transfer market with enormous financial offers to lure some of the finest European players. Having signed the likes of Neymar (no matter the brevity), Rúben Neves, and Milinković-Savić, the Saudi team now consider signing Van Dijk as a prime target to firm up their defence. But the intensity of competition in the Saudi Pro League remains a strong factor for the Dutchman, as he has not yet expressed any public intention to leave European football.

On the other hand, PSG is also keen on strengthening their defense and may offer Van Dijk a tempting proposition if he is keen to remain among the best. Anchored by Marquinhos at the heart of defense, PSG is looking for another world-class defender to complete their squad. Van Dijk's recent meeting with PSG officials has fuelled further speculation of mutual interest.

Liverpool's dilemma

Although Liverpool desires to hold on to Van Dijk, his contract may not be extended. With the Dutchman leaving as a free agent this summer, the Reds will not only lose one of their staples but also forfeit a transfer fee which can be utilized in making new signings. While that, at least, is not true of Alexander-Arnold and Salah whose futures are also uncertain, Liverpool may be in the midst of massive change soon.

As the Carabao Cup final approaches, Van Dijk remains focused on the moment, but when Newcastle is defeated, the speculation regarding his future will certainly intensify. Will he accept Al-Hilal's record offer, stay in top European competition with PSG, or keep making his mark at Liverpool?