Liverpool are aiming to replace their captain Virgil van Dijk with one of three targets their fierce rivals Manchester United have recently pursued. United bolstered their centre back department significantly in the summer with the purchases of Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt.

The Reds captain is one of three first-team stars out of contract at the end of the campaign but it appears a plan could already be in place to bring in a suitable replacement

Liverpool have made their decision and have already lined up a replacement for legendary defender Virgil van Dijk.

From the early to late 2000s, Old Trafford was home to David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, Cristiano Ronaldo, Nani, Ji-Sung Park and, occasionally when asked to fill in out wide, a certain Wayne Rooney. Now, this is not a point designed to make Manchester United supporters feel nostalgic.

Liverpool moved to the top of the Premier League with a resounding 3-0 win over Bournemouth as Manchester United were held to a disappointing 0-0 draw by Crystal Palace on

Follow live coverage as Crystal Palace face Manchester United today in the Premier League. Another top-flight season will be covered in full right here with The Independent, as reigning champions Manchester City look to make it an unprecedented five titles in a row come the end of 2024/25.