Van Dijk signs new Liverpool deal as Reds close in on Premier League title
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has signed a new two-year contract extension, committing his future to the club until 2027 and ending months of speculation over a potential summer departure.
The Dutch defender’s decision comes just a week after Mohamed Salah also agreed to fresh terms, further solidifying Arne Slot’s plans as he closes in on a league title in his debut season in charge.
Van Dijk, 33, was out of contract at the end of the current campaign and had been linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain. But the centre-back insisted he never seriously considered leaving Anfield.
“It was always Liverpool,” Van Dijk said. “That was the case. It was always in my head, it was always the plan… I’m one of Liverpool.”
Now in his seventh year at the club, Van Dijk has made 314 appearances and scored 27 goals since joining from Southampton in 2018 for a then world-record £75 million fee. He has won every major trophy with Liverpool under former manager Jürgen Klopp, including the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, League Cup, UEFA Super Cup, and Club World Cup.
The Dutchman’s leadership was rewarded last summer when he was handed the captain’s armband after Jordan Henderson’s departure. His new deal signals continuity under Slot, and comes at a pivotal moment in the title race.
Liverpool are 13 points clear at the top of the Premier League table with six games remaining. They could clinch a record-equalling 20th league title as soon as this weekend if second-placed Arsenal drop points.
“It’s a proud feeling,” Van Dijk said of his renewal. “It’s just incredible… to be able to extend it with another two years at this club is amazing.”
While the futures of Van Dijk and Salah are now settled, the focus shifts to Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose contract also runs out this summer. The England international has been heavily linked with Real Madrid and is yet to agree new terms, although he returned to training this week following a month-long injury layoff.
As Liverpool edge closer to glory, Van Dijk is set to play a pivotal role in what could be another historic chapter in the club’s story.
(Source: AFP)
