Virgil van Dijk insists he never thought of going anywhere else after following in the footsteps of Mohamed Salah by signing a two-year contract extension with Liverpool. Van Dijk’s previous deal was due to expire at the end of June, but the Dutchman has now confirmed that he will stay until the summer of 2027.
The 33-year-old centre-back has been with Liverpool since a £75million transfer from Southampton in January 2018 and has captained the side since July 2023. He has made over 300 appearances for the Reds, helping to win the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, Club World Cup and two Carabao Cups, with a second league title on the way.
While rumours swirled around Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold, the Dutchman has hinted on a few occasions throughout the season that he was happy to stay on Merseyside and that staying put was his focus.
“I’m very happy, very proud,” Van Dijk said. “There are so many emotions obviously that go through my head right now speaking about it. It’s a proud feeling, it’s a feeling of joy. It’s just incredible. The journey I’ve had so far in my career, to be able to extend it with another two years at this club is amazing and I’m so happy.”
He added: “It was always Liverpool. That was the case. It was always in my head, it was always the plan and it was always Liverpool.
“There wasn’t any doubt in my head that this is the place to be for me and my family. I’m one of Liverpool. Someone called me the other day an adopted Scouser – I’m really proud to hear these things, it gives me a great feeling.”
Salah ended the speculation around his future, which included a big-money move to Saudi Arabia, when he signed an extension on Friday.
“I am very happy with Virgil this season he has been incredible for us,” Slot said on Friday when asked about Van Dijk after Salah’s announcement
“Maybe some moments lately where he can do better but the other 89 minutes, such an important player. Hopefully he can do the same and be our leader again.”
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