Liverpool’s skipper, Virgil van Dijk, faced rejection from Real Madrid last season.
Contract Negotiations and Offer
As his contract came to a close, reports from Marca indicate that Van Dijk’s representatives proposed the 34-year-old defender to Real Madrid.
Timing of the Negotiations
This offer occurred before the public revelation that Trent Alexander-Arnold was on the verge of joining Real Madrid as his contract with Liverpool neared its expiration.
Upon realizing that Real Madrid was pursuing a younger option for their defense, Van Dijk quickly changed his plans and returned to discussions with Liverpool, ultimately agreeing to a new contract lasting until 2027.
Real Madrid’s Alternative
In the meantime, Real Madrid shifted their focus to securing Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth to address their need for a central defender.