Phil Thompson believes potential Liverpool sale a ‘big miss’, ‘wonderful’ ace tipped to be replacement

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Former Liverpool legend Phil Thompson has shared his verdict on Virgil Van Dijk’s contract situation at the Reds this summer.

Liverpool have been left frustrated in the transfer market this summer with Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi snubbing a move to Anfield this summer in favour of remaining at San Sebastian.

Outgoings look to be the priority with Brentford agreeing a deal to sign Fabio Carvalho with the Portuguese winger moving to the London club for £25 million.

However, the future of iconic Liverpool centre-back Virgil Van Dijk remains unclear with the Dutchman yet to sign a new deal at the club this summer.

Phil Thompson on Van Dijk’s contract situation

HITC has reported that Van Dijk has made it clear he wants to remain at Liverpool but as of yet no new contract has been confirmed.

There had been interest from the Saudi Pro League in Van Dijk but the Dutchman has made it clear that he wants to remain at Anfield.

Speaking on talkSPORT (9:10AM) , Liverpool legend Phil Thompson was asked for his thoughts on Van Dijk’s contract extension with the Dutchman now entering the final year of his contract.

“Yes it is,” Thompson said when he was asked whether this could be the beginning of key squad changes coming up.

“Jarell Quansah is an absolutely ‘wonderful’ player and will be a centre-back for Liverpool for a long time. Virgil still has time in him but it’s a difficult one.

“With just 11 months of his contract, nothing has been secure what will he want. Do you pay him top money, it will be a worry if Van Dijk moves away for nothing, it would be a big blow for the finances. Virgil would be a big miss if he doesn’t sign a contract.”

Jarell Quansah could be the Virgil Van Dijk replacement

HITC had reported that Liverpool were ‘working hard’ to sign Leny Yoro from Lille but the French teenager ended up at Manchester United.

However, in Quansah, Liverpool certainly have a defender who has the makings of becoming one of the best in his position in the Premier League.

Van Dijk admitted that he was mentoring Quansah earlier in the season and there is the possibility that the Englishman could replace the Dutchman if the former Southampton defender does not sign a new deal.

Jurgen Klopp was also a big fan of Quansah and the promising centre-back could be key for Liverpool in the next couple of seasons.