Liverpool latest: World Cup winner's son eyed in 'serious move' as Van Dijk row heats up
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Arne Slot's side face mounting pressure to finish the season strongly and clinch Champions League qualification, while fresh names are emerging as the Reds look towards summer signings regardless of who is at the helm.Supporters are already aware that Mohamed Salah will not be at Anfield beyond this summer, while Ibrahima Konate is yet to makeup his mind over his future. They face a stern test in the shape of last season's beaten finalists Manchester City but momentum could be key heading into the final seven matches of the league season and victory in any competition can help in that regard.READ MORE: Arne Slot makes 'vulnerable' Liverpool admission and details injury problemREAD MORE: Steven Gerrard raw on Mohamed Salah texts and forward's Liverpool exit - 'Will regret that'A number of Liverpool's players have been away representing their countries during the international break, and one of them - captain Virgil van Dijk - has managed to generate some Liverpool-related headlines that have nothing to do with transfer rumours.
United star Casemiro has already confirmed his intentions to leave United, where he could yet be replaced by Newcastle's Sandro Tonali if the Magpies end up without a spot in Europe next term.Van Dijk defendedDutch pundit Hans Kraay Jr has taken aim at British media at what he has perceived as undue criticism of Virgil van Dijk. Liverpool captain Van Dijk skippered his team to Premier League success last term but has seen his form come under scrutiny this season as the Reds' title defence has fallen flat."In England, the analysts, columnists, and the self-proclaimed know-it-alls have completely lost their minds," Kraay Jr wrote for Voetbal International.
"After four league matches this season, Van Dijk was dubbed the very best central defender ever in the Premier League. In short: Virgil van Dijk's career was almost over."Van Dijk, 34 started twice during the Netherlands' recent international double-header.