The Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk, who joined from Southampton, has rebuilt a shaky defence under Jurgen Klopp’s regime.He led the final line with his overwhelming leadership, but was also easily outplayed in defence against the opposition, making him one of the best defenders in the Premier League.
At 32, he has been named captain and this season has seen him perform close to his peak. But with a contract expiring at the end of 2025/6, he is still a player to be reckoned for, and has been a key player for the club in the recent past.
However, with one year remaining on his contract, which expires in June 2025, his departure is attracting a lot of attention. According to Marca, Saudi Arabia’s Al Nassr have contacted the player’s agent with the intention of acquiring him and have offered the highest salary of any defender in the world.
The Saudi Professional League, backed by the vast wealth of oil money, has acquired a number of name value players from the world of football. Al Nassr boasts the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane and Marcelo Brozovic.
On the other hand, a number of players like Jordan Henderson will soon return to Europe, or hope to. In terms of conditions alone, the league is as attractive as China used to be, but the living conditions and league level are very different and the fit is likely to be intense.
Liverpool will work on a contract extension with the Dutch defender and have indicated that they want him to remain at Anfield beyond 2025. It is unlikely that they will allow him to leave this summer, and the 32-year-old centre-back, who will be a key player next season, is not likely to request a move in search of playing time.
In any case, it is hard to see a future where the defensive leader leaves Anfield this summer, and he will be looking forward to a new season with new manager Arne Slot.