Liverpool’s captain, Virgil van Dijk, has officially extended his stay with the club by signing a new contract, as revealed on Thursday, putting an end to the speculation surrounding his future.
The new deal spans two years, ensuring he will remain with the team until July 2027.
Van Dijk’s previous contract was set to expire this summer. Negotiations, led by sporting director Richard Hughes, have been in progress for several months with his agent, Neil Fewings.
From the outset of these discussions, it was evident that both Van Dijk and the club were keen to finalize an extension for his tenure at Anfield.
Liverpool has also renewed Mohamed Salah’s contract, seeing the retention of Van Dijk as a strong indication of their ambitions as they aim to build on the successes of Arne Slot’s first season.
“I am truly thrilled and honored,” Van Dijk stated. “As I reflect on this moment, I am filled with emotions.
“This is a joyous moment for me, I’m overflowing with joy. It’s simply fantastic. The journey I’ve taken in my career so far, and now having the chance to extend my stay at this club for another two years, is extraordinary, and I couldn’t be happier.”
Van Dijk joined Liverpool from Southampton in January 2018 and has since established himself as one of the best central defenders in the world.
He has made more than 300 appearances for the club, securing seven major trophies, such as the Premier League and the Champions League.
The Dutch international has been performing exceptionally well this season, helping Liverpool to be on course to win their 20th league title.
Van Dijk is the second of Liverpool’s three players whose contracts were expiring to agree to a new deal, following Salah, who signed a two-year contract extension earlier this month.
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future remains uncertain as rumors about a move to Real Madrid persist.
Van Dijk shared, “Liverpool has always been my focus. That was the plan from the start, and it’s always been about Liverpool for me.” He continued,
I have always felt certain that this is my rightful place, along with my family. I am a part of Liverpool. Someone referred to me as an adopted Scouser the other day, and I felt really proud to hear that. It means a lot to me.”
