Virgil van Dijk provides update on new Liverpool contract discussions after win over Chelsea
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has provided an update on his contract situation following the Reds' win over Chelsea 2-1 on Sunday (October 20). The Netherlands international has entered the final year of his deal at Anfield.
Along with Van Dijk, key players Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold's agreements also run out in the summer of 2025. Speaking about his situation in specific, the 33-year-old defender said (via SPORTbible):
“I can say obviously discussions are ongoing, but I don’t know, we will see what happens in the future. My full focus is on Liverpool, wanting to win games that are ahead of me and nothing else. What the future will bring I have no idea at the moment. I can only tell you that discussions have been started and we will see.”
He added:
"I feel very good, physically, mentally and I am having fun. Discussions are ongoing with the right people and when it’s time to make a decision or whatever, I think you guys [the media] will know it as well. But now my full commitment and focus is on Liverpool and to be successful this season."
Van Dijk and his Reds side have gotten off to a brilliant start this Premier League season. Under new boss Arne Slot, the Merseysiders are sitting top of the league standings, a point clear of second-placed Manchester City after eight games.
To date, Van Dijk has made 280 appearances across competitions for the Merseysiders, bagging 24 goals and 12 assists. He's won the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League once each, among other honors with his club.
Liverpool prioritizing contract renewal for Virgil van Dijk - Reports
Liverpool are reportedly prioritizing Virgil van Dijk's contract renewal, even with Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold in the final year of their deals. This is according to a report from Football Insider, who claim that the player himself wants to continue with his current employers (via The Hard Tackle).
It is further stated that the Dutchman has several clubs after him, and therefore, options for Van Dijk would not be meagre by any means. However, he continues to play a prominent role for Liverpool even at 33.
The former Southampton man has started every single Premier League and UEFA Champions League match for the Reds this campaign (10 games). He'll be expected to start for Arne Slot when his team face RB Leipzig on Wednesday (October 23).