Bayern Munich is contacting Liverpool's key defender Virgil van Dijk (34) to explore his possibility of a free transfer. If the transfer is successful, he could become either a partner or a competitor for Kim Min-jae (29, Bayern Munich).

The U.K.'s Football Insider reported on the 18th (Korea time) that "Bayern Munich has started discussions with van Dijk's agent and is conducting preliminary negotiations for a potential acquisition."

Born in 1991, van Dijk is a central defender known for his strong aerial ability and dominance in the air, standing at 195 cm tall. In addition, he is regarded as one of the top center-backs in modern football due to his speed, tactical understanding, and excellent passing ability.

During his time at Liverpool, he led the team to win the Premier League in the 2019-2020 season and reached the UEFA Champions League final in the 2018-2019 season. He was also recognized as the world's best defender, finishing second in the 2019 Ballon d'Or, behind Lionel Messi (then with Barcelona).

Although he still plays as a starter for Liverpool, his future is uncertain due to age and contract issues.

According to Football Insider, the consolidation between Bayern Munich and van Dijk was revealed through exclusive reporting by Mick Brown, who previously served as chief scout for Manchester United and Blackburn. He noted that "Bayern Munich has emerged as serious competitors to acquire van Dijk."

Van Dijk's contract is set to expire in June, and so far, negotiations for a renewal with Liverpool have not progressed. Since January, foreign clubs have been in a position to conduct preliminary negotiations with his agent.

Bayern Munich is strengthening its squad with the goal of winning the Bundesliga and the Champions League, targeting van Dijk as a major acquisition, as he could potentially become available on a free transfer.

Real Madrid is also showing interest in acquiring van Dijk. Football Insider reported that "Real Madrid is paying attention to van Dijk's contract expiration and is considering his acquisition."

Mick Brown analyzed, "Bayern Munich has begun contacting van Dijk's agent to acquire him. Ultimately, financial terms will be a key factor."

He further explained, "Harry Kane is having a successful run with Bayern Munich after leaving the Premier League. Van Dijk would also be able to maintain his skills in Germany without the intense pressure he faced in the Premier League," adding, "However, leaving Liverpool and the Premier League is like a step down for any player."

The failure to renew van Dijk's contract appears to have been influenced by recent exits in the FA Cup and UEFA Champions League, as well as the failure to win the Carabao Cup. Ultimately, whether van Dijk stays at Liverpool to continue competing or opts for a new challenge is up to his decision.

As van Dijk's situation becomes uncertain, Liverpool is pursuing new acquisitions to bolster their defense. Football Insider reported that "Liverpool has set their sights on Marc Guéhi, the captain of Crystal Palace, and Dean Huysen from Bournemouth as their top priority acquisitions."

Guéhi has established himself as a key defender at Crystal Palace and has consistently played for the England national team, drawing attention in this summer's transfer market.

Meanwhile, Huysen is having an impressive season at Bournemouth and is receiving interest from several clubs, including Liverpool. His contract contains a buyout clause of £55 million (approximately 103.5 billion won), making his transfer highly likely.

If van Dijk transfers to Bayern Munich, he is likely to team up with the current key defender Kim Min-jae. Conversely, it may lead to intense competition, so changes in the roles of the two players also need to be noted.

As interest grows regarding van Dijk's situation, it remains to be seen how Bayern Munich's final decision and van Dijk's choice will unfold.

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