Gerrard's Call to Van Dijk Proves Key in Transfer Battle
Manchester City's transfer efforts were dealt a blow when Liverpool signed Virgil van Dijk in 2018, with a phone call from Steven Gerrard playing a crucial role in the Dutch defender's decision to join the Reds.
Van Dijk's Decision to Join Liverpool
Van Dijk had established himself as one of the Premier League's best centre-halves and made it known to Southampton that he wanted to move on. A summer move failed to materialise, but the saga was always going to continue come January.
Liverpool's Transfer Win
Liverpool would win the race, spending a then club-record £75million to land Van Dijk, who made an instant impact as he helped the Reds make the Champions League final within months of joining.
Gerrard's Conversation with Van Dijk
Gerrard recalls Van Dijk phoning him to get a greater impression of the Merseyside outfit. The Dutchman wasn't looking for the Liverpool legend to sell him the club, instead seeking a greater insight, but Gerrard did make it clear that Liverpool's traditions far exceeded City's.
Van Dijk's Impact at Liverpool
Within 18 months of signing Van Dijk had been named the PFA Player of the Year and proved crucial in Liverpool's Champions League success of 2019. The following year he helped the Reds' end their 30-year wait for a top flight title. Van Dijk remains Liverpool's defensive leader despite turning 35 this summer.
Current Form
League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 2nd in Premier League, 78 pts, 23W-9D-6L from 38 games, recent form LDWWD. Goals this season: 77 scored, 35 conceded (+42 goal difference). Title race: 7 points behind leaders Arsenal. Last result: Manchester City 1-2 Aston Villa (2026-05-24). Currently sidelined: Jack Grealish, Rodri.
