Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk is finally enjoying some downtime after a marathon season.
Van Dijk was left disappointed last week after the Netherlands were beaten by a last-minute England goal in the Euro 2024 semi-finals.
The game against the Three Lions was the 33-year-old’s 64th of a long campaign. Once again, Van Dijk has been one of the most used players in Europe by both Liverpool and the Netherlands.
Not a young player anymore, this is bound to take its toll on Virgil. And in the aftermath of defeat for his country, Van Dijk was visibly frustrated with the press.
As well Van Dijk ranting about the referee on the night, he also said some slightly ominous things about his Liverpool future.
Liverpool’s stance on Virgil van Dijk future
Van Dijk has just one year left on his contract with Liverpool. Given his age and status as one of the top earners in the Liverpool squad, his chances of getting an extension are in danger.
As a result, Van Dijk has met with Al Nassr already to discuss a potential move in the future.
Although it seems highly likely that he will stay at Anfield at least until the end of next season, what happens next is yet to be determined.
The player himself gave an insight into where his mind is at in regards to the situation after the Netherlands lost to England.
READ MORE: Dutch national media react to Virgil van Dijk’s display vs England
In quotes from The Athletic, Van Dijk admitted that he is set to ‘think carefully’ about his future at both club and international level during his summer break.
“I will think carefully this summer about what I want, at club level and as an international player,” said the Dutchman.
Van Dijk’s comments have understandably led to concern amongst the fanbase. But according to The Athletic, Liverpool themselves are unconcered.
They claim that the Reds are ‘relaxed about the situation’ regarding their captain. After such a disappointing defeat, it’s said to be ‘hardly a surprise’ that Van Dijk batted away questions over his future in such a manner.
Will Virgil van Dijk sign a new contract?
Liverpool need to be careful with how they handle talks with Van Dijk over a contract extension.
As things stand, they would be silly not to offer the skipper a new deal. Van Dijk was Liverpool’s best player last season and despite his age still has plenty to give.
There is an inherent gamble in handing a big contract out to someone who could decline considerably by the end of it. But Van Dijk is a once-in-a-generation type player. He’s worth the risk.
If the Reds show that they are not interested in keeping the No.4 around beyond 2025 though, then they run the risk of upsetting him. As professional as he is, that could lead to some angst from Van Dijk and could filter through to the rest of the dressing room.
In our opinion, this will still get done. Arne Slot clearly has Van Dijk in his plans and he’s still so important to the club. Get it sorted please, Liverpool.
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