Report: Liverpool Eyeing €60m La Liga ‘Giant’ as Potential Virgil Van Dijk Replacement | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Strategic Pursuit of Loic Bade: A Proactive Move for the Future

Liverpool’s hunt for their next defensive stalwart is in full swing, with Richard Hughes, the club’s sporting director, keen on securing Loic Bade as the potential successor to Virgil van Dijk. This development, as reported by Fichajes, comes at a crucial juncture for Liverpool, especially considering van Dijk’s uncertain future at Anfield.

Identifying the Ideal Successor

Virgil van Dijk’s influence at Liverpool has been monumental since his arrival from Southampton in January 2018. Not only did his signing set a new transfer record for the Reds at £75 million, but he has also been pivotal in Liverpool securing seven major honours during his tenure. However, with his contract set to expire at the end of the season and the defender recently turning 33, Liverpool is right to plan for the future. According to Fichajes, Hughes has shown a “persistent interest” in Bade, viewing him as the “ideal successor” to van Dijk, an ambition that aligns with Liverpool’s forward-thinking transfer strategy.

Photo: IMAGO

Bade’s Career Trajectory and Current Form

Loic Bade’s journey has been less straightforward than van Dijk’s. After a challenging stint at Nottingham Forest, where he failed to make an appearance, Bade’s career took a positive turn at Sevilla. He said, “It was the coach’s responsibility. He had other preferences in his choices, and I respected him.” His resurgence in Spain, highlighted by his contributions to Sevilla’s Europa League victory and scoring in the final stages, underscores his potential and resilience. Bade’s recent performances, especially his ability to win tackles and aerial duels, suggest he could adapt well to the Premier League’s physical demands.

Financial Implications and Competition

Securing Bade’s signature won’t be straightforward or cheap, given his €60 million release clause. Liverpool, however, has not shied away from such investments, as evidenced by their willingness to meet Martin Zubimendi’s similar clause earlier. The Reds face stiff competition from heavyweights like Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain, making any potential deal a significant coup.

Liverpool’s Defensive Strategy Moving Forward

As Liverpool prepares for potential departures and retirements, including the notable release of Joel Matip, securing a player of Bade’s calibre could be crucial. Jarell Quansah’s rise is promising, but Liverpool’s historical preference for experienced players in key roles suggests that Bade’s acquisition would be a strategic fit, both on the pitch and in the locker room.

Statistical Analysis by Anfield Index

Loic Bade’s rise to prominence in LaLiga has caught the attention of many, particularly for his defensive prowess. A detailed statistical analysis, courtesy of Fbref, reveals key insights into his performance over the last 365 days, with comparisons drawn against other centre-backs.

Defensive Strengths: Tackling, Aerial Duels, and Blocks

One of the most impressive aspects of Loic Bade’s performance data is his elite-level defending. Ranking in the 94th percentile for tackles and interceptions combined (Tkl+Int), as well as in the 81st percentile for aerial duels won, Bade demonstrates his command in high-pressure situations. Additionally, his ability to block shots, where he ranks in the 94th percentile, further solidifies his status as a reliable defender. This data highlights why he is viewed as a potential successor to Virgil van Dijk at Liverpool.

Possession and Progressive Play

Beyond defending, Bade’s role in possession is noteworthy. His 97th percentile rank in successful take-ons shows his comfort with the ball at his feet, an invaluable trait in modern football for a centre-back. However, his passing accuracy stands at 83.1%, falling into the 41st percentile, indicating a key area for improvement. His progressive carries rank in the 55th percentile, underscoring his potential in contributing to forward play but signalling room to grow.

Attacking Contributions

While not expected to be an attacking threat, Bade’s non-penalty expected goals (npxG) and expected assisted goals (xAG) rank moderately, in the 48th percentile and 58th percentile respectively. His threat from set-pieces and defensive contributions in the final third remain useful secondary attributes.

Loic Bade’s performance stats clearly show why he is one of Europe’s promising defenders and why clubs like Liverpool are interested in his services.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

As a Liverpool fan, the link to Loic Bade is an exciting prospect. While Virgil van Dijk’s legacy is colossal, the sands of time spare no one. Bade represents not just a potential replacement but a statement of intent from Liverpool’s management. His physical presence and tactical awareness in LaLiga, particularly during his time at Sevilla, have demonstrated that he’s more than capable of stepping up.

Liverpool’s proactive approach in the transfer market has been commendable. The club’s willingness to activate substantial release clauses shows a commitment to maintaining competitiveness at the highest level. Moreover, Bade’s challenging experience in the Premier League with Nottingham Forest could serve as a vital learning curve, potentially making him a more rounded player ready to tackle unfinished business in England.

In conclusion, while every transfer carries a risk, Liverpool’s interest in Bade seems like a calculated gamble. If he can channel his recent form and continue to develop under Liverpool’s guidance, he might just be able to fill the large boots left by van Dijk. This would not only secure Liverpool’s defensive line for the coming years but also reassure fans that the club’s future is in safe hands.