Provstgaard: Lazio a ‘dream come true’, Van Dijk ‘my idol’ | OneFootball

Lazio’s new signing Oliver Provstgaard admits he draws inspiration from Liverpool’s Virgil Van Dijk in terms of both playing style and ‘personality’, as he considers himself a ‘modern centre-back’.

The Biancocelesti sealed the under-the-radar signing of the 21-year-old defender from Danish club Vejle on deadline day, allowing the youngster to join his compatriot Gustav Isaksen at the Stadio Olimpico, who he described as a ‘great person and fantastic player’.

SS Lazio President Claudio Lotito and Enrico Lotito with Reda Belahyane & Oliver Provstgaard pose as SS Lazio unveil new signings new signings on February 03, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)

Provstgaard has been called up for Denmark youth teams since he was 16, but he has never played outside his native country and conceded that he ‘didn’t think twice’ before accepting Lazio’s offer when he learnt about their interest.

Provstgaard on Lazio ‘dream’, ‘modern’ defending and admiration for Van Dijk

“I’m living a dream,” Provstgaard said in his first interview released on the club’s official website.

“It’s my first time in Rome, and it’s wonderful to be here and stay here. Playing for Lazio is a dream come true, and I can’t wait to start creating memories with this club.

“Lazio are having a great season, they’re in a great position in the league, and already in the Europa League round of 16. The goal is to finish in the top 4 in Serie A and make a good run in the cups.

“My personal goal is to enjoy my time here and make Lazio even stronger. When I found out about their interest, I didn’t think twice, I took the first flight and came to Italy.”

Asked about his playing style, Provstgaard explains that he enjoys having his sides play from the back, even under pressure from opponents, adding that Van Dijk is one of his main inspirations in the role.

Virgil van Dijk, Thijs Dallinga and Alisson Becker in Liverpool-Bologna (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

“I consider myself a modern centre-back, I love playing the ball under pressure,” the defender continued.

“I want to have possession and create potential chances from the back for my team. That’s my main strength. But I’m also tall and physically strong, which is a big advantage for a defender.

“My idol is Van Dijk from Liverpool. I like him as a player, but even more, I admire his personality and the way he leads the team as captain. I admire him a lot.”

Lastly, on Isaksen: “He’s a great person and a fantastic player. We have similar personalities, and I’m sure he’ll teach me a lot.”