Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk has hinted that he could be willing to sign a new deal with the Merseyside club this season.
Virgil van Dijk will be out of contract at Liverpool in 2025, and he could move on as a free agent if he does not sign an extension with the Reds. However, the Merseyside outfit have been trying to tie him to a new contract.
The Dutchman has now revealed that he is a leader for his club and country and that he wishes to continue in his role for the next two years. The defender is looking forward to the 2026 World Cup with the Netherlands, and he is looking to succeed with Liverpool as well.
Van Dijk said via Daily Mirror, “At both teams, I am still Virgil van Dijk, the big leader! And I certainly want to remain that for the next two years. I am human, I have emotions too. You start thinking all kinds of things. Especially just after a game like the elimination (by England) in the very last minute.
“I also understand that it came across unclear on how I stood in all this, because after the match I was so disappointed and full of emotion. It perhaps came across as if it had been my last international match. I did have doubts that night and I did hint at that.
“It’s very good that I went on holiday the next day, was able to spend time with my children, my family, which is the most important thing in my life. I was able to share it and then very quickly things calmed down.”
Encouragement for Liverpool
His recent comments will serve as great encouragement for Liverpool, who are hoping to keep him at the club for as long as possible. The 33-year-old is a world-class player, and he is an indispensable asset for the club. Liverpool cannot afford to let him leave anytime soon if they are serious about challenging for major trophies.
The Reds should look to tie him down to a new deal soon. The veteran defender will be able to negotiate with foreign clubs when the transfer window opens in January. Liverpool must secure agreement with him before that.
Van Dijk has been exceptional for Liverpool since joining the Reds from Southampton, and he has helped them win the Premier League title and the UEFA Champions League trophy. The 75-cap Dutch international is undoubtedly one of the greatest defenders in the club’s history, and Liverpool should offer him a bumper new deal as soon as possible. Along with Virgil van Dijk, they should look to tie down Alisson Becker, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Mohamed Salah to new contracts as well.