Real Madrid are setting their sights on Virgil van Dijk, with the Spanish giants hoping to land the Netherlands captain on a free transfer when his contract at Liverpool comes to an end this season.

Van Dijk's deal at Anfield is due to expire in the summer, opening the door for one of Europe's most coveted defenders to make a move without a transfer fee attached. Real Madrid, long admirers of the commanding centre-back, are keen to take advantage of the situation.

A move to the Santiago Bernabéu would represent a significant shift for Van Dijk, who has been a cornerstone of Liverpool's defence since joining the club in 2018. The 33-year-old has repeatedly been linked with a contract extension on Merseyside, but no agreement has been reached so far.