Liverpool Football Club captain Virgil van Dijk has committed his future to the club by signing a new two-year contract.
The 33-year-old Dutch centre-back’s previous deal was set to expire at the end of the current season, but he has now followed star forward Mohamed Salah, who signed a two-year extension last week, in pledging his future to the Merseyside club.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Van Dijk expressed his delight, saying, “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.”
The Netherlands international, who previously played for Groningen, Celtic, and Southampton before his £75 million move to Liverpool in January 2018, had been the subject of transfer speculation linking him with Paris St-Germain.
However, Van Dijk affirmed his loyalty, stating, “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.”
Van Dijk has been instrumental in Liverpool’s recent successes, helping the Reds secure the Premier League title, the Champions League, the FA Cup, the Club World Cup, and the EFL Cup twice. Under the guidance of new manager and fellow Dutchman Arne Slot, Van Dijk remains a key figure as Liverpool aim to clinch a record-equalling 20th English league title this season. Sources and related content
