Liverpool They are in advanced talks to complete the signing of Sevilla centre-back Loic Bade in winter transfer window, according to Spanish media, Todifichajes.
Reds captain Virgil van Dijk is nearing the end of his contract, which will expire next summer, pending a renewal. At 33, the Dutchman may not have many years of top form left in him, and it is pertinent that the club begin looking for viable replacements before next summer.
It seems that Liverpool have already taken proactive measures to sign a worthy replacement, such as Todifichajes reports that the Merseyside club are well advanced in talks to sign Bade, who could become a Liverpool player in January if all goes to plan.
Despite being a regular for the Nervionenses this season, financial complications in the sports department have hit the club in recent months, motivating a possible sale of the defender, according to reports.
The Spanish publication adds that Sevilla's sporting director, Víctor Orta, is already working to find a replacement for the French international and that Liverpool appear willing to overtake Bayern Munich to sign the defender.
Bade to Liverpool
Bade still has a contract at the Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán which runs until the summer of 2029 and is valued by the Spanish club at €30m (£25m). However, Liverpool have reportedly sealed the 24-year-old's transfer for a fee close to €25m (£20m), according to the report.
Liverpool are preparing for the possible departure of Virgil van Dijk if the Dutchman does not sign a contract extension.
While it may be difficult to find a similar replacement for the Dutchman, finding a defender who is equally strong in duels and efficient on the ball would be the ideal decision for the Reds to replace their captain.
The club have now named Sevilla's Bade as a suitable replacement, and it is no surprise why the Merseyside club are interested in the Frenchman, who has been a phenomenal presence in defense for club and country.
At 24, the former Nottingham Forest loanee has gained significant top-flight experience, having made more than 100 first-team appearances and playing a key role in Sevilla's 2023 squad. european league and France's Olympic triumphs in 2024.
Bade will hope to form a formidable partnership with compatriot Ibrahima Konate if a move to Anfield materializes.
