Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has signed a new two-year contract, reaffirming his commitment to the club beyond the current season.
The 33-year-old Dutch defender, whose previous deal was set to expire this summer, follows in the footsteps of teammate Mohamed Salah, who also agreed to a two-year extension last week.
“It was always Liverpool,” said Van Dijk, amid reported interest from Paris Saint-Germain. “That was the plan from the start. It was always in my head, and it’s where I want to be.”
Since arriving from Southampton for £75 million in January 2018, Van Dijk has made 314 appearances for the Reds and played a central role in a historic era of success. His leadership and defensive prowess have helped Liverpool capture the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, Club World Cup, and two EFL Cups.
Appointed club captain in 2023 after Jordan Henderson’s departure, Van Dijk spoke of his deep connection with Liverpool and its supporters.
“There was never any doubt this is the place for me and my family,” he said. “Someone recently called me an adopted Scouser—hearing that gives me a real sense of pride. To extend my journey here is incredible. I'm just so happy.”
Under new manager Arne Slot, also Dutch, Van Dijk has remained a cornerstone of the squad as Liverpool push for a record-equalling 20th English league title.
Just last month, Van Dijk admitted uncertainty about his future, saying he had "no idea" whether he would remain at Anfield. However, earlier this month, he confirmed that contract negotiations were progressing positively.
With Van Dijk and Salah now secured, attention turns to the future of Trent Alexander-Arnold. The England international returned to training this week after a month-long injury absence but is out of contract in July. He has been strongly linked with a move to Real Madrid.
Analysis: Smart Business for Liverpool as Icons Stay Put
First Salah, now Van Dijk—Liverpool have retained two of their most influential figures, a major boost for the club and the Premier League.
With both stars previously nearing the end of their contracts, uncertainty loomed over Anfield. Their extensions now bring stability at a critical juncture in Liverpool’s evolution under Arne Slot.
The financial logic also adds up. Replacing players of Van Dijk and Salah’s quality would likely require upwards of £200 million in transfer fees alone, not to mention wages. Both remain high performers in their 30s, making contract renewals a smart, low-risk move.
Van Dijk’s decision also reduces the urgency to recruit a new centre-back this summer. However, Liverpool’s plans in that department could hinge on the outcome of talks with Ibrahima Konaté, who is entering the final year of his contract.
Should an extension with Konaté not be agreed soon, the club may be forced to consider offers rather than risk losing him on a free in 2026. Among the options Liverpool have scouted are Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen and Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi.
While questions still linger—particularly around Alexander-Arnold and Konaté—Liverpool’s recent moves have brought clarity, continuity, and confidence to the red half of Merseyside.