Virgil van Dijk has committed his future to Liverpool by signing a new contract that will keep him at Anfield until 2027, ending speculation over a potential summer departure.
The 33-year-old was due to become a free agent at the end of the season but has now agreed a two-year extension, following in the footsteps of Mohamed Salah, who also signed a new deal last week.
Talks had been ongoing between the club’s sporting director Richard Hughes and Van Dijk’s agent Neil Fewings, with both parties keen to reach an agreement.
Van Dijk has been ever-present during the campaign, featuring in 44 matches across all competitions and scoring four goals, including a winner against West Ham United last weekend.
Despite injury problems within the squad, he has provided consistency and stability at the heart of the backline, helping the club move within touching distance of a record-equalling 20th league title.
Liverpool need just six points from their remaining six fixtures to be crowned champions, and the title could even be secured this weekend if Arsenal drop points at Ipswich Town and the Reds beat Leicester City.
Speaking after signing his contract, Van Dijk described the moment as “amazing” and said it was “always Liverpool” in his mind. He added that there was no hesitation about continuing at the club, and expressed pride in being considered “an adopted Scouser” by supporters.
He also praised the city, the fans, and the club’s values, stating that his family had come to see Liverpool as home.
The Dutchman’s decision to stay is seen as a strong statement of intent from Liverpool under the leadership of Arne Slot, who took charge at the end of last season.
While fellow key figure Trent Alexander-Arnold is expected to leave at the end of his contract in June, the renewals of Salah and Van Dijk suggest the club is determined to maintain a strong core as they continue to build towards sustained success in a new era.
Since joining Liverpool in 2018, Van Dijk has won the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, League Cup, UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup.
The new deal gives him the opportunity to add to that collection and continue his influential role at the club for at least two more seasons.
Source: Football Today / Digpu NewsTex