Liverpool are still the only team not to sign a new player this transfer window and suffered a set back yesterday when Martín Zubimendi has rejected Liverpool’s to remain at Real Sociedad.
The Times has reported that as the new season starts this Saturday and Virgil van Dijk has disclosed that Liverpool have yet to present him with a contract extension offer, despite the fact that he is now in the final year of his current deal. The Dutch defender’s comments came after Liverpool’s 4-1 pre-season friendly victory against Sevilla at Anfield, marking the first match under new head coach Arne Slot.
Van Dijk, who has been with Liverpool since 2018, played 74 minutes in the match, where goals from Diogo Jota, Luis Díaz, and the young Trey Nyoni secured a comfortable win. However, as impressive as the performance was, the ongoing uncertainty over Van Dijk’s future casts a shadow over the club’s preparations for the upcoming season.
When questioned about his contract situation, the 33-year-old captain acknowledged that no significant progress has been made. With his current deal set to expire next summer, Van Dijk would be free to negotiate with European clubs from January, potentially leaving on a free transfer. This situation is similar to that of his teammates Mohamed Salah, aged 32, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, aged 25, both of whom are also in the final year of their contracts.
Liverpool’s ownership, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), has faced criticism for allowing these key players to enter the last 12 months of their contracts without securing their futures. The club’s policy has traditionally been cautious when it comes to offering long-term deals to players in their 30s, a factor that may be contributing to the delay in Van Dijk’s contract negotiations.
During the match against Sevilla, Alexander-Arnold, who is also nearing the end of his contract, played a pivotal role, providing the assist for Jota’s stunning volley in the first half. His performance, along with Van Dijk’s consistent contributions last season, raises questions about whether FSG should reconsider their stance on extending contracts for these experienced players.
As the season progresses, Van Dijk’s contract situation is likely to remain a talking point, with Liverpool’s ability to compete at the highest level potentially hinging on the decisions made regarding the futures of their star players. Whether FSG will act swiftly to secure Van Dijk’s services beyond this season remains to be seen, but for now, the situation remains unchanged.
