Mayes Yousef
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has confirmed that he is in discussions with the club regarding a potential contract extension. The 33-year-old defender, who has been with Liverpool since January 2018, is currently signed through the end of the season.
“We’re in talks, and we’ll see where things go,” the Dutch centre-back said. “Right now, my main focus is on helping Liverpool win matches. What the future holds is uncertain, but I can tell you that discussions have started.”
Both Trent Alexander-Arnold and Mohamed Salah, who also have contracts expiring next summer, have not provided any updates on their situations. Van Dijk, who was acquired from Southampton for £75 million, has played a key role in Liverpool’s success, including winning the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, League Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup.
Under new head coach Arne Slot, Liverpool has made an impressive start to the Premier League season, winning seven of their first eight games. Van Dijk, speaking after Liverpool’s 2-1 victory over Chelsea, shared his thoughts on the team’s success so far.
“I’m feeling great, both physically and mentally, and I’m enjoying my football,” he said. “When a decision is made about my future, everyone will know.”
Van Dijk has been crucial in helping Liverpool maintain the best defensive record in the Premier League this season, conceding just three goals. He attributed this to a collective team effort rather than individual brilliance.
“At the beginning of the season, we looked at the data around how we defend when the opposition is in the final third, and we’ve made adjustments,” he explained. “It’s not just about the backline or the goalkeeper—it’s everyone in front of us working together. While the centre-backs and goalkeeper might get the recognition, the clean sheets are a credit to the entire team.”