Liverpool seriously considering move to sign 22-year-old Premier League star as replacement for Van Dijk: Reports

Liverpool have identified Nottingham Forest defender Murillo as a possible replacement for Virgil van Dijk, according to TeamTalk. The Dutchman has entered the final year of his contract with the Reds and is yet to sign an extension.

The situation remains quiet at Anfield, but the Merseyside club are aware that they have to lay down succession plans for the 33-year-old. Van Dijk has been a key part of Liverpool's recent success and his departure could leave a gaping hole at the back.

The English giants have reportedly zeroed in on Murillo for the task. The Brazilian has been sensational for Nottingham Forest since joining the club in the summer of 2023. Murillo already gave the Reds a reminder of his qualities in game at Anfield, which Nuno Espirito Santo's side won 1-0.

Chelsea also have their eyes on the 22-year-old, whose contract at the City Ground runs until 2028. Forest are under no pressure to offload their star man and could demand around £70m to let him go.

Comparing the two defenders' statistics this season makes for an interesting read. Both have nine appearances in the league this season. Murillo has averaged 1 tackle, 0.6 interceptions, 0.9 fouls, 5.7 clearances and 1.3 blocks per 90 minutes played.

Van Dijk, meanwhile, has 0.6 tackles, 2.1 interceptions, 0.4 fouls, 5.4 clearances and 1.1 blocks per 90 minutes played. There appears to be little to separate the two players and the Brazilian could be a fine successor for the Dutchman at Liverpool.

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Will Liverpool sign a new forward in 2023?

Mohamed Salah

Liverpool are sweating on the future of Mohamed Salah, who will enter the final six months of his contract in January. The Egyptian has been indispensable for the Merseyside club in the recent past.

Salah has amassed 219 goals and 96 assists from 362 games across competitions for the Reds. The 32-year-old has been in good form this season as well, registering eight goals and seven assists from 13 games under Arne slot.

Liverpool remain engaged in talks to tie him down to a new deal, but Salah could be tempted to move to the Middle East too. Recent reports have suggested that the Reds have identified Real Madrid's Arda Guler as a possible replacement for the Egyptian (via CaughtOffside).

The Turkey international has struggled for chances under Carlo Ancelotti this season.