Real Madrid Target Virgil van Dijk as Mourinho Plans Experienced 2027 Signings

Real Madrid could continue their shift towards signing more experienced players under manager Jose Mourinho, with Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk reportedly emerging as a potential target for 2027.

The Spanish giants have already added experienced names such as Bernardo Silva and Denzel Dumfries since Mourinho took charge in the summer, while Ibrahima Konate also arrived from Liverpool after his contract expired.

Real Madrid are expected to strengthen in at least two positions before the 2027/28 season, with a central defender and a midfielder reportedly on the club’s list of priorities. Mourinho wanted another centre-back during the recent transfer window but was unable to make the move happen.

According to reports from MD, Van Dijk is now on Real Madrid’s radar as he approaches the final months of his Liverpool contract. The Dutch defender is currently on course to become a free agent at the end of the season if the Premier League club does not agree a new deal with him.

The potential move could allow Real Madrid to repeat the strategy used to sign Konate, bringing in an experienced Liverpool defender without paying a transfer fee. Van Dijk would also offer considerable experience to Mourinho’s defence after establishing himself as one of the leading centre-backs of his generation.

However, Van Dijk’s age could become a major consideration for Real Madrid. He would be 36 by the time he joined the Spanish club in 2027, meaning any deal would likely represent a short-term solution rather than a long-term investment.

Liverpool are reportedly not currently prepared to offer Van Dijk a new contract, which could allow Real Madrid to begin discussions over a potential agreement from January. The Spanish club will then have to decide whether to pursue the experienced defender or focus on a younger centre-back who can contribute over a longer period.