Milan targets van Dijk, Cardinale's strategy under the spotlight

In his Milan office, journalist Carlo Pellegatti watches the transfer board while stating that Virgil van Dijk, Liverpool captain, could become Milan's first signing next season, with his contract expiring on June 30, 2027.

The Dutch defender has not yet reached an agreement to extend his contract with Liverpool, leaving his situation open to negotiations. Numerous top European clubs, including Real Madrid, are monitoring the case to assess the possibility of entering the negotiations.

Among the possible new clubs, Milan emerges as one of the most mentioned, also thanks to the support of well‑known journalist Carlo Pellegatti. Pellegatti said in a video on his YouTube channel that he is increasingly certain that van Dijk could wear the red‑and‑black shirt.

Van Dijk's profile

Pellegatti described van Dijk as a “formidable signing” both practically, because Milan’s defence needs a similar profile, and media‑wise, as a top player choosing Milan would boost the club’s visibility. He also emphasized that to convince a player of this calibre, Milan must be playing in the Champions League.

If Milan were to guarantee Champions League football, van Dijk might prefer the club even over Real Madrid, which is also interested, but European participation remains a fundamental requirement. Liverpool, Premier League champions, does not appear keen to renew the captain’s contract, leaving room for a transfer.

Age is not a barrier

Pellegatti cited the ages of Zlatan Ibrahimović and Olivier Giroud, both older when they helped win a Serie A title, to show that age does not matter. He stated that “the important thing is the value, and van Dijk is very strong,” indicating that maturity is not a hindrance for Milan.

The journalist hopes that Gerry Cardinale maintains a solid strategy, starting work already in January‑February, as the player’s contract runs out in 2027 and Liverpool does not seem to want a renewal. According to Pellegatti, Milan should aim to pay the right price or, alternatively, to close the deal at zero cost.

A potential purchase of van Dijk would strengthen Milan’s defence and give the club a prestige boost in Serie A and Europe, making the team more competitive in the next Champions League. The summer market could therefore see Milan at the centre of one of the most talked‑about deals of the year.