Contract Talks Advance as Van Dijk Eyes Extended Stay
Speaking after Liverpool’s 3-2 defeat to Fulham on Sunday, Van Dijk hinted at positive developments in negotiations.
“There is progress, yeah,”* he told reporters. “Listen, these are internal discussions and we’ll see.”
The 33-year-old center-back, who turns 34 in July, has been a pillar of Liverpool’s success since joining in 2018. Alongside Salah and Alexander-Arnold, he played a crucial role in the club’s 2019 Champions League triumph and their long-awaited Premier League title the following year.
While Alexander-Arnold has been heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid, both Van Dijk and Salah appear more inclined to extend their stays. The Egyptian forward, also out of contract in 2025, remains a vital part of Liverpool’s attack, while Van Dijk’s leadership has been instrumental in their charge toward another league title.
Defeat at Fulham a Minor Setback in Title Charge
Despite Sunday’s loss—only their second in the league this season—Liverpool remain firmly in control of the title race. The Reds sit 11 points clear of second-placed Arsenal with just seven games remaining.
Van Dijk acknowledged the need for a quick response ahead of next weekend’s clash against West Ham at Anfield.
“That’s definitely the mentality in our group—that the job is not done,” he said. “Now we just have to recover from this physically and mentally and put our minds on West Ham at home.”
Future of Liverpool’s Core Hangs in the Balance
With Jurgen Klopp set to depart at the end of the season, securing the futures of key players like Van Dijk and Salah will be crucial for Liverpool’s transition. The club’s hierarchy is keen to avoid a mass exodus, and Van Dijk’s potential renewal would provide much-needed stability.
For now, the focus remains on sealing the Premier League title—but behind the scenes, the Reds are working to ensure their captain remains at the heart of their project for years to come.