Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk enjoyed a swipe at Manchester United when discussing Holland teammate Cody Gakpo.

Van Dijk has led his country to the World Cup quarter finals after a 3-1 Last 16 win over USA.

Man United and Real Madrid have both been heavily linked with Gakpo, whose contract with PSV runs out in June 2026.

When asked whether Gakpo is ready to play at the level of either of those giant clubs, either in January or next summer, Van Dijk replied: “Is Manchester United and Real Madrid the same level at the moment?

"No disrespect, not at all. I definitely think he has that next step in him. I definitely feel like it could happen, whether that is in the winter or the summer or next year, time will tell.

“He is a great boy who works hard, very talented and definitely there is more in him. we are so pleased he is doing so well for us. Long may it continue."