Liverpool FC captain Virgil van Dijk has been linked with a surprise move away from Anfield after Turkish outlet Fotomac claimed the defender is planning to leave Liverpool and could even consider terminating his contract at the end of the season. The report, which has also been echoed by Turkish broadcaster A Spor, suggested Turkish champions Galatasaray SK are preparing a move for the Netherlands international ahead of the 2026 summer transfer window. However, the claims remain highly speculative at this stage and should be treated with caution, particularly given Van Dijk only signed a new Liverpool contract in April 2025 extending his stay until June 2027.
According to Fotomac, Galatasaray have placed the 34-year-old at the top of their list as they look to strengthen defensively after winning the Turkish Super Lig title last season. The Turkish report also claimed Van Dijk made no secret of his admiration for the Galatasaray support during Liverpool's recent meetings with the Turkish side at Rams Park and is reportedly open to the possibility of wearing the Galatasaray shirt one day. Galatasaray and Liverpool have faced each other three times this season, with the Turkish side winning two of those matches.
Fotomac stated: "Virgil Van Dijk, who is planning to leave Liverpool, has become a leading candidate for Galatasaray." The report further alleged the Dutch defender could consider terminating his contract if he feels at risk of losing his place in Liverpool's side, with Galatasaray president Dursun Özbek expected to become personally involved in any possible transfer approach.
Liverpool's situation makes move difficult to imagine
Despite the reports emerging from Turkey, a move away from Liverpool currently appears unlikely given Van Dijk's importance to the squad under manager Arne Slot. The Dutch centre-back remains one of Liverpool's most influential players and continues to be regarded as one of the best defenders in the Premier League despite turning 34. Liverpool are already facing a major summer of transition, with long-serving forward Mohamed Salah expected to leave Anfield at the end of the season, while goalkeeper Alisson Becker has also been linked with a possible move to Juventus FC. Allowing Van Dijk to depart in the same window would leave Liverpool without three of their most experienced senior figures at once.
The club are also preparing to integrate younger defenders including Giovanni Leoni and Jérémy Jacquet more regularly into the first-team setup next season, increasing the importance of retaining Van Dijk's leadership and experience.
Galatasaray interest continues to grow
While the idea of Van Dijk terminating his Liverpool contract appears far-fetched, Galatasaray's admiration for the defender is believed to be genuine. The Turkish champions have increasingly targeted globally recognised stars in recent transfer windows as they continue trying to strengthen their position domestically and in European competition.
Fotomac claimed Van Dijk could begin assessing his long-term options if he believes his role at Liverpool may reduce over the next year, especially as this would likely represent the final major contract decision of his career.
Van Dijk still central to Liverpool plans
Even with speculation continuing around his future, Van Dijk remains central to Liverpool's defensive structure. French defender Ibrahima Konaté is reportedly close to signing a new contract at Anfield and has developed into a senior figure within the squad, but Liverpool still view Van Dijk as the leader of the back line. His influence extends beyond performances on the pitch, particularly with younger players coming through the system.
Since arriving from Southampton FC in 2018, Van Dijk has helped Liverpool win the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, League Cup and FIFA Club World Cup, becoming one of the defining players of the club's modern era.
