Real Madrid want Liverpool star to replace Sergio Ramos?

Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk has emerged as a potential transfer target for Real Madrid, should Sergio Ramos leave the Bernabeu during the summer transfer window.

Ramos has been with the outgoing European champions for more than a decade but it appears that he is pondering over a fresh challenge elsewhere this summer.

Both Liverpool and United are said to have made contact with the Spaniard's representative and his potential departure may influence Los Blancos to pursue a world-class replacement.

According to AS, Los Blancos are keeping a close watch on the proceedings of Van Dijk and they could make an approach for his services, should Ramos part ways with the club.

Despite this, there is no indication from the Reds end that they would even consider offers for the Netherlands international, given he has been key to their transformation in the past 18 months.

Aside from his ruthless defending, the 27-year-old has contributed six goals and four assists for Jurgen Klopp's side, who are vying to win the Champions League against Tottenham Hotspur next month.