Bayern Munich defender Niklas Sule has set Liverpool star Virgil van Dijk as the benchmark for success in his career.
Van Dijk has been a revelation since his £75m move from Southampton in 2018, and has become arguably the best player in his position in world football.
The 28-year-old has helped Liverpool win three major trophies, including the Champions League last season, and has been a key figure in helping the Reds amass a 25-point cushion at the top of the Premier League table.
Sule arrived at Bayern from Hoffenheim in 2017, and was part of the team that lost to the Reds in last season’s Champions League last-16 tie.
Sule, who is 24 and four years younger than Van Dijk, is hopeful to reach the same level as the Liverpool centre-back in his career.
“If people say that I’m among the best in the world, I’ll be happy. That’s my aim,” Sule told Bundesliga.com.
“Van Dijk joined Liverpool at 27 [sic]… he’s now at the top at just under 30. Centre-backs reach their peak from their mid-20s. You have the necessary experience and calmness, as well as being as your physical peak.
“He wasn’t on everyone’s radar at Southampton, but he was able to step it up a notch at Liverpool. I have every chance at Bayern. It’s in my hands whether I become one of the best centre-backs in the world or not.”
