'Big dream' to sign Liverpool player – €8-10m a year after-tax

AC Milan targeting Liverpool captain Van Dijk as a free agent next summer, offering €8-10m per year on a two-year deal.

AC Milan have identified Virgil van Dijk as their main defensive target for 2027, with owner Gerry Cardinale leading the pursuit. The Liverpool captain's contract expires next summer, allowing him to leave as a free agent at age 36. Milan are ready to exploit this situation and have outlined their proposal: a two-year contract worth €8-10m per year after tax. Italian journalist Carlo Pellegatti has backed the move as both a practical and media coup for the Serie A club.

Milan's ability to attract Van Dijk hinges on two factors: qualifying for the Champions League and presenting an ambitious sporting project. Currently fifth in Serie A, four points behind Inter Milan and seven behind leaders Lazio, Champions League qualification is not guaranteed. The salary offer is substantial, but Van Dijk's preference for European football at the highest level remains a key condition. Other clubs could also make advances for the Dutch defender before any concrete negotiations begin.