Ahead of Liverpool’s clash with Manchester City this afternoon, a nine-metre gold statue has appeared near Anfield, inspired by the £75m signing of Virgil van Dijk.
That deal, incredibly, made the Dutchman the most expensive defender in the history of the game.
It is just the latest mega-money football transfer, following Neymar’s £198m switch to PSG last summer, when even the likes of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain commanded a £40m price-tag.
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With debate over whether these players are worth their weight in gold, we erected the statue as a to-scale representation of what £75m in gold looks like, ahead of a possible first league match for van Dijk’s Liverpool.
Kop fans will be hoping their new man solves their backline issues – and doesn’t defend like a statue.
Asked about the statue spokesman Paddy Power said: “Transfer fees have gone absolutely crazy this season. I’m starting to think even I’d be worth at least £50million.
“We’re sure Liverpool fans will be pleased with their new golden boy, and I’m sure they’ll rate van Dijk, too.”
VIRGIL VAN DIJK SPECIALS11/10 To leave Liverpool before the start of the 19/20 season
4/1 To leave Liverpool for Manchester City
6/1 To be appointed full-time Liverpool captain next season
50/1 To be sold for less than half of his £75million transfer fee within a year of his contract
200/1 To win the Balon d’Or in 2019
21/10 Liverpool
13/5 Draw
5/4 Man City
The full Liverpool v Manchester City market is available here.
* All odds correct at time of posting.
