Exclusive: Liverpool closely monitoring Chelsea transfer target as potential Van Dijk replacement

Liverpool are understood to be closely monitoring Feyenoord defender David Hancko as a potential transfer target for the summer.

Sources have told CaughtOffside that the Reds are one of a number of top clubs emerging as potential suitors for the Slovakia international, though the player himself has yet to make any kind of a decision over his future.

If Hancko does end up moving at the end of this season, then Liverpool could be alongside other big names like Chelsea, Tottenham, Bayern Munich and Juventus in pursuing the 27-year-old.

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Both Chelsea and Spurs also looked at Hancko in January, though a deal didn’t materialise on that occasion, while Liverpool’s interest will likely hinge on what happens with Van Dijk.

There have been mixed reports about the Netherlands international’s future as he nears the end of his contract, and Hancko could make sense as an ideal replacement.

David Hancko transfer could help Liverpool replace Virgil van Dijk

Of course, Liverpool’s priority will surely be to keep hold of Van Dijk after another superb season, but if he decides to move on then the Merseyside giants will need a plan in place to fix their defence.

Hancko has shone at Feyenoord so could be ideal for LFC, especially as Arne Slot will know the player well from managing him at his former club.

Chelsea could be a threat, however, as they also have issues in defence at the moment after a frustrating campaign.

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The Blues started out looking like title contenders but have slipped away a bit in more recent times, so they could probably do with improving at the back, with Hancko likely to be an upgrade on the likes of Benoit Badiashile and Tosin Adarabioyo, while Wesley Fofana has been far too injury prone.

Liverpool might be the more tempting project overall, but if their interest depends on Van Dijk’s future, then Hancko might feel he’d be more assured of a key role at Stamford Bridge.