He is still one of the best centre-backs on the market and heavily linked with Real Madrid. Virgil Van Dijk could leave as a free agent in the summer, but now it is reported that the club will be getting ready to convince the captain to continue the working relationship.
The 35-year-old continues to play a pivotal role for Liverpool this season, with the Dutchman having been on the pitch for every minute of the Premier League so far this season. His standards, both on and off the pitch, have impressed Andoni Iraola, who is delighted with what the Dutchman brings to the team.
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According to Teamtalk’s sources, Liverpool are now open to discussing an extension. Among the solutions being considered is a 12-month deal, possibly with options. There is no rush to get a deal in place, but Liverpool want Van Dijk to know that they certainly want to keep him at Anfield. They value his leadership qualities and the ongoing importance he has to the team, and they want him to know that they would like to see him stay after the current season.
Van Dijk remains one of the highest-paid defenders in European football, which means that he may have to take a slight pay cut if a new deal is to be made. However, both the player and Liverpool are open to different solutions, and both parties are willing to explore the possibility of extending a stay that is now in its tenth season – with 387 appearances for the club so far.
Liverpool have also seen the effects of having Van Dijk as a leader in defence, with 21-year-old Jeremy Jacquet benefiting from playing alongside veteran Van Dijk, and Giovanni Leoni also benefiting from the captain’s experience and high standards.
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Liverpool want more of this! If there’s something Liverpool fans also love, it’s key players who continue to give their best years to the Reds.
