Does Liverpool Have a Plan to Replace Virgil van Dijk? Ex-Defender Weighs in on Jacquet and Leoni

Virgil van Dijk is entering the final year of his contract with Liverpool, which expires in the summer of 2027. This raises questions about whether the club has prepared a succession plan for the Dutch defender, who has been a defensive cornerstone since joining the Reds nearly a decade ago.

Potential Successors: Jeremy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni

Former Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock shared with GOAL that the club might already have future leaders ready. Two young players, Jeremy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni, are being viewed as possible heirs to Van Dijk’s role at Anfield.

Van Dijk's Legacy and Current Role

The 35-year-old centre-back has been monumental for Liverpool, playing over 400 games and securing two Premier League titles, a Champions League trophy, and finishing runner-up in the Ballon d’Or race. Despite his age, Van Dijk continues to play an important part this season, guiding a defense that still needs improvement, especially from full-backs Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez, while Ronald Araujo fights for regular game time on loan.

Jacquet and Leoni's Progress So Far

Jacquet, signed from Rennes for £55 million, has integrated well into the squad. Meanwhile, 19-year-old Italian Leoni showed great promise before suffering an ACL injury during his Liverpool debut in a Carabao Cup match against Southampton. He has been sidelined for almost a year but earned high praise back home for his performances in Serie A.

Warnock on Liverpool’s Succession Strategy

"Possibly," said Warnock when asked if Jacquet and Leoni are set to succeed Van Dijk. "Replacing a player of Van Dijk’s stature is tough. Both youngsters show promise, especially Leoni despite limited appearances. The pressure will build as they develop, and their progress until around 26 or 27 years old will be crucial."

"Playing centre-back means you need to read the game better and position yourself smartly — that's part of growing. There are many factors that could affect their rise, like injuries, form, and team dynamics. When Van Dijk joined Liverpool, it was the final piece alongside Alisson that completed a strong system. Right now, Liverpool are in transition, which makes it harder to settle."

Looking Ahead: Liverpool’s Upcoming Matches and Defensive Challenges

Jacquet still awaits his first competitive clean sheet after Liverpool drew 2-2 with Newcastle and Nottingham Forest in the opening matches of the 2026-27 Premier League season. The Reds face Ipswich Town next, a newly-promoted side, as they aim for their first win of the campaign at Portman Road.