Former Liverpool defender names current Premier League player who could replace Virgil van Dijk

Stéphane Henchoz believes Manuel Akanji could be an ideal replacement for Virgil van Dijk at Liverpool.

Van Dijk is in the final months of his contract with the Reds and Henchoz does not think Liverpool manager Arne Slot "has the power to offer the money and length of contract that Van Dijk is looking for."

Losing a key figure like Van Dijk could be troublesome for Liverpool, but longtime former Switzerland international Henchoz suggests his countryman could provide adequate cover should that situation come to pass.

• Read next | Former Man United player says club 'more concerned' with legends' criticism than fixing problems

Speaking to BoyleSports, who offer the latest Cheltenham betting, Henchoz explained what Manchester City defender Akanji could bring to Anfield.

"He is a good player who has shown how high his level is," Henchoz, who spent five seasons with Liverpool during his playing days, said. "I could see Akanji at Liverpool. He is quick, he is strong, he is young enough to still improve and he is an intelligent player.

"He has great anticipation, he is comfortable with the ball and is the kind of player I could see playing for Liverpool."

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