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Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has signed a new two-year contract, putting to rest speculation over his future just a week after Mohamed Salah also committed to a fresh deal.
The timing of the announcement is significant, with Liverpool potentially days away from securing the Premier League title in what has been an impressive first season for new manager Arne Slot.
Van Dijk’s previous contract, like Salah’s, was set to expire at the end of the season. Speaking after penning the extension, the Dutch defender said: “I’m very happy, very proud. There are so many emotions going through my head right now. It’s just incredible. To be able to extend my journey here for another two years is amazing and I’m so happy.”
While Van Dijk and Salah’s futures are now settled, questions remain over Trent Alexander-Arnold. The England right-back, who returned to training this week after a month out injured, is also out of contract this summer and continues to be linked with a move to Real Madrid.
Van Dijk, who turns 33 this year, has been a cornerstone of Liverpool’s recent success. Since arriving from Southampton in January 2018 for a then-world record fee for a defender of £75 million, he has made 314 appearances and scored 27 goals for the club.
During his time at Anfield, he has lifted a host of trophies including the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, two League Cups, UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup—achievements all earned under former boss Jürgen Klopp.
Last month, the towering centre-half admitted he had “no idea” if he would stay at Liverpool beyond the season, but dropped hints at the weekend that he was edging closer to an extension.
Despite reported interest from Paris Saint-Germain, Van Dijk insisted his heart was never swayed from Merseyside.
“It was always Liverpool,” he said. “That was always the plan in my head. There was no doubt this is the place for me and my family. I’m one of Liverpool. Someone called me an adopted Scouser the other day—I’m really proud to hear that.”
Van Dijk previously played for Celtic before his move to Southampton, and became Liverpool captain in 2023 following Jordan Henderson’s departure.
Now, with a new deal signed, he looks set to lead Liverpool to yet more silverware. The Reds are 13 points clear at the top of the Premier League with six matches remaining, and could clinch the title as early as this weekend if Arsenal drop points.
