Transfer insider’s update on Virgil van Dijk suggests he’s made up his mind on Liverpool future

With less than a year remaining on his Liverpool contract, Virgil van Dijk has attracted significant interest from the Saudi Pro League. His remarks following the Netherlands’ semi-final loss to England in the 2024 Euros inadvertently sparked speculation about his future, causing some Liverpool fans to worry he might leave this summer.

However, according to Graeme Bailey for HITC, Van Dijk has informed Liverpool executives that he wishes to stay and sign a new contract with the club. He has reportedly rejected opportunities to meet with potential suitors. New Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has also conveyed to the club’s higher-ups his desire to retain Van Dijk for the upcoming season.

Despite ongoing rumors about Van Dijk potentially moving to Saudi Arabia, Bailey’s report that the Dutch defender wants to remain at Anfield offers some reassurance. Currently, Van Dijk is Liverpool’s second-highest paid player at £220,000 a week (Capology), and given his recent 33rd birthday, it would be prudent for the club to extend his contract beyond next summer.

Having taken on the captaincy following Jordan Henderson’s departure, Van Dijk had a successful 2023–2024 season. Slot will depend heavily on his leadership both on and off the pitch in his debut season as Liverpool manager. It is expected that Liverpool’s sporting director, Richard Hughes, will meet with Van Dijk after his post-Euro 2024 vacation to discuss extending his contract by at least another year.