Liverpool enter race to sign 25 y/o Van Dijk successor who World Cup-winning legend loves

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But at 34, it is important for Liverpool to plan for eventual life without the Dutchman, even though he will hopefully remain at the top of his game for the foreseeable future. But of course, we don’t want to drag it out indefinitely; everyone is aware of that.” Can Schlotterbeck be Van Dijk’s heir at Liverpool?

In Schlotterbeck, Liverpool have a strong option to come in and be a formidable performer, though, with the 25-year-old now a 22-cap Germany international – one who is likely to play a key part for his country at next summer’s World Cup. So far this season, the defender has enjoyed a 90.3% pass completion rate in the Bundesliga, as well as averaging six clearances and 1.7 aerial duel wins per game, while World Cup-winning legend Lothar Matthaus has lauded his international performances, saying: “Schlotterbeck has developed superbly at Borussia Dortmund; under Niko Kovac he’s become calmer and more confident.

After his long injury break, he’s come back very strong. He is also a main contributor for This Is Anfield, one of the world's biggest Reds-related sites, where he writes features and news, and covers matchday content.