Arne Slot may already have the perfect alternative to Virgil van Dijk, potentially solving Liverpool’s defensive concerns.
The Dutchman has enjoyed an outstanding debut season at Liverpool since replacing Jurgen Klopp last summer. Currently, the Reds lead the Premier League comfortably, sitting 13 points ahead of Arsenal.
In Europe, Liverpool faces a tough challenge in the Champions League, where they are set to clash with French champions Paris Saint-Germain in the round of 16.
However, uncertainty looms over key contract negotiations involving Van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold. If new deals are not agreed upon, all three could leave Anfield for free—a major setback for Slot.
Despite this, Slot might already have a potential Van Dijk replacement within his squad.
Could Arne Slot have a ready-made Van Dijk successor?
During the January transfer window, Spanish youngster Stefan Bajcetic secured a loan move to La Liga side Las Palmas for the remainder of the season.
The 20-year-old impressed in a 2-0 loss against Barcelona last month and was recently forced into an unfamiliar role. During Friday’s match against Valladolid, Bajcetic stepped in at center-back after Las Palmas suffered two injuries and a red card.
Once again, he delivered a strong performance, drawing praise from fans online after a compilation of his display surfaced.
One fan noted: “He was a CB at youth level, so it’s no surprise he plays the role so well.”
Another added: “I remember he was a CB when we signed him. Klopp moved him into midfield.”
A third commented: “That’s his best position.”
With Van Dijk’s future uncertain and Joe Gomez’s history of injuries, Liverpool may soon face a defensive dilemma.
However, if Bajcetic continues to impress, he could emerge as a reliable center-back option, allowing the club to allocate transfer funds elsewhere in their summer rebuild.
Las Palmas return to La Liga action next weekend against Real