Exclusive: Real Madrid and Bayern Munich among elite clubs now ready to pounce on 'world-class' Liverpool player

TBR Football can exclusively confirm a development in Virgil van Dijk’s camp that could lead to alarm bells starting to ring at Liverpool amid contract talks with the Dutchman.

The Liverpool defender is one of three star players at Anfield who is set to be out of contract at the end of the season, alongside Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Liverpool are currently flying high in the Premier League table, currently sitting at the summit, and are also in the last 16 of the Champions League and in the League Cup final.

However, the close season could potentially see a number of big departures, and in Van Dijk’s case, some big suitors are starting to appear.

Real Madrid and Bayern Munich among elite clubs eyeing Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk

TBR Football chief correspondent Graeme Bailey understands that Virgil van Dijk’s camp are being alerted to the increasing interest in Liverpool’s captain.

Van Dijk is-out-of-contract at the end of the season but, despite being close to agreeing terms last summer, fresh terms have not yet been agreed.

TBR Football understands that van Dijk is keen to remain at Anfield – in principle – but as it stands there is no deal on offer that is suitable to both parties.

So far Van Dijk and his team have been unwilling to seriously listen or consider interest from elsewhere, but we understand that the interest is increasing.

It is believed that Saudi Arabia’s Pro League and America’s Major League Soccer would like to take van Dijk – but some of Europe’s biggest clubs are open to the prospect.

We understand that Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus are all amongst the clubs in the picture.

They would be willing to talk to Van Dijk about the prospect of a free transfer at the end of season – should he be on the move.

Van Dijk is due to turn 34 this summer, but he has produced one of his best seasons in his seven-year stint at Anfield, with Ollie Watkins deeming Van Dijk “world-class” recently.

Meanwhile, Salah has been linked a move to the Saudi Pro League, but Liverpool haven’t given up trying to tie them down to new deals.

Lineker said: “I don’t know, I’d be shocked if he doesn’t [sign], especially the way he jokes about things as well.

“You don’t do that if you’re going to leave. But who knows, I might be wrong, but I sense [he will].”