“He's going straight to wherever he wants to go” - Darren Bent suggests Liverpool star could follow Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid

Former Premier League striker Darren Bent has backed Liverpool's Virgil van Dijk to join the club of his choice if he leaves, including Real Madrid. Van Dijk's teammate, Trent Alexander-Arnold has been widely linked with a move to Santiago Bernabeu recently.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Bent claimed that Van Dijk could follow in the footsteps of Thiago Silva, who played at the top level even at the age of 39. He said:

“Not necessarily (on the demise of van Dijk starting because of his age). The classic example we have just seen depart is Thiago Silva. He’s 39 and look what he did in his last four years at Chelsea. I think Virgil could be exactly like that. At 39, to be playing in the Premier League for Thiago Silva, is incredible. Not only that, he won Chelsea’s Player of the Year – I don’t think they are now (defenders sliding all over the place)."

"Virgil is exactly the same. He can read the game, as a centre half, he can go beyond 35 and 36. He still has his pace and still reads the game. He still wants to defend one-v-one and two-v-two," he added.

Talking about Van Dijk leaving Anfield, Bent added:

“He is going straight to wherever he wants to go. That includes Real Madrid. Exactly (that tells you how important van Dijk is to Liverpool). You are talking about one of the best defenders. There is an argument he is the best defender in the Premier League and certainly one of the best in history.”

Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold are in the final year of their respective contracts at Liverpool.

Virgil van Dijk wants Liverpool stay despite Real Madrid rumors

Virgil van Dijk has admitted that he wants to stay at Liverpool beyond the expiry of his contract next year. The Dutchman also talked about his importance for the Reds on and off the pitch and said (via ThisIsAnfield):

“I focus on the team and the boys so much. I always try to talk and am constantly busy with everyone. I’ve had that responsibility for years. I am very much important, on and off the pitch. I don’t like to say that about myself, but I am. The responsibility at the club and at the national team is still super big.”

Apart from Van Dijk and Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool also have Mohamed Salah's contract expiring next summer.