Virgil van Dijk has admitted it would be a “big blow” for Liverpool if goalkeeper Alisson were to depart the club this summer.
Alisson arrived at Liverpool from Roma in 2018 and has been central to their success, helping them secure two Premier League titles, as well as the Champions League, EFL Cup, and FA Cup.
The Brazilian shot-stopper has featured in 254 Premier League matches for the club. Since his debut, only Hugo Lloris (72.5%) and David Raya (72.7%) have posted a better save percentage than Alisson’s 72.1% among goalkeepers with at least 50 appearances in that period.
He has also recorded 103 Premier League clean sheets, with only Ederson (106) surpassing that tally since the 2018-19 campaign.
Now 33, Alisson has made 34 appearances in all competitions this season, though injuries have limited his availability. Reports have linked him with a potential exit from Anfield, alongside long-serving teammates Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson.
“Listen, there is always going to be a day when you go,” Van Dijk said, as reported by ESPN.
“But if it’s going to happen, and I have no idea about it and I don’t think, at this point, he has an idea about it, then we will, as a club, adapt to that.
“We have been through everything together, positive things and some negative things unfortunately as well, so it would definitely be a big blow and a miss but I don’t think, for me, it’s a good idea to think ahead about what could or could not happen.
“He’s very important for me as one of the leaders in the team and I think he is very important on the pitch because I think he is the best goalkeeper in the world.”
Despite the speculation, Van Dijk says he is calm about the situation.
“He’s trying to be back as soon as possible to help us for the last four games and that’s our main focus. Whatever happens after that is not something you should ask me,” he added.
“Would I love him to stay? Of course, there’s no doubt about that.
“Everyone can feel a certain way about it. There are rumours but if there is anything concrete then we will all find out but, for me, I’m never worried.”
Liverpool currently sit fifth in the Premier League and, despite a mixed season, remain in contention to qualify for the Champions League.
They are set to face Manchester United in a rivalry clash on Sunday.
