LIVERPOOL, UK – It has been revealed that Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk was a sensational transfer target for Chelsea during his period of contractual uncertainty at Anfield last season.
According to renowned journalist Ben Jacobs, the Blues attempted to capitalize on a breakdown in communications between Van Dijk and the Liverpool hierarchy in 2025. At the time, the Dutch international was reportedly unhappy with the Reds’ delay in offering a renewal, leading Chelsea to explore what would have been the most controversial move of the decade.
A “Market Opportunity” for the Blues
With Van Dijk’s previous deal nearing its end, Chelsea’s management reached out to the defender’s representatives to gauge his interest in a move to Stamford Bridge. The London club viewed the veteran center-back as the perfect leader to stabilize their young defense a “market opportunity” they felt was too good to ignore.
Despite the initial contact, the talks never reached an advanced stage. Van Dijk, a symbol of Liverpool’s recent era of dominance, prioritized staying with the Premier League champions and chose to wait for a formal proposal from the Anfield board.
Staying at Anfield Until 2027
The gamble paid off for both the player and the club. Van Dijk eventually put pen to paper on an extension that secures his future at Liverpool until June 2027.
Now 34, the Dutchman continues to defy his age, maintaining his status as one of the world’s elite defenders. Inside the club, there is a growing belief that Liverpool will be the final chapter of Van Dijk’s illustrious career, with the captain expected to lead the team through the transition into the late 2020s.
Thiago Nuno is a football editor and analyst covering European leagues, match statistics, and transfer market trends.
