Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has played down concerns over his future at Anfield, insisting he remains relaxed about his contractual situation as he approaches the final months of his current deal, which expires in June 2027.
The 35-year-old Netherlands international has yet to commit to an extension beyond his existing agreement, leaving uncertainty over whether he will continue his career with the Merseyside club beyond the 2026/27 campaign. However, the defender insists his immediate priority remains football rather than negotiations over his future.
“I feel good but it’s not about me at the moment so let’s see because I’m not in any panic,” Van Dijk said, making it clear that he is comfortable allowing the situation to develop without unnecessary pressure.
Since arriving from Southampton in January 2018 for a then-world-record £75 million fee for a defender, Van Dijk has established himself as one of the most influential players of Liverpool’s modern era.
He has made 389 appearances across all competitions for the Reds, scoring 36 goals and providing 13 assists. His contribution has extended beyond his defensive responsibilities, with his aerial ability, composure on the ball and leadership making him a central figure in the club’s success.
Eight Major Honours at Anfield
Signed by former manager Jürgen Klopp, Van Dijk quickly transformed Liverpool’s defence and became an integral part of the side that challenged for major honours in England and Europe.
His debut could hardly have been more memorable. The Dutchman scored a late winner against Everton in a 2-1 FA Cup victory at Anfield on January 5, 2018, immediately announcing his arrival to the Liverpool supporters.
He played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s run to the 2018/19 UEFA Champions League final, where Klopp’s side defeated Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 in Madrid to secure their sixth European crown.
Van Dijk’s performances that season earned him the PFA Players’ Player of the Year award, while he finished second behind Lionel Messi in the 2019 Ballon d’Or voting.
The following campaign, he helped Liverpool end their 30-year wait for a league championship, starting all 38 Premier League matches as the Reds accumulated a club-record 99 points to win the 2019/20 title.
His collection of honours subsequently grew to eight major trophies, including two Premier League titles, the Champions League, FA Cup, two League Cups, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup. The second league triumph came in the 2024/25 season, when he captained Liverpool to the championship.
Appointed permanent captain in July 2023 following Jordan Henderson’s departure, Van Dijk has also become a key figure in maintaining the club’s leadership and standards.
Departure Remains an Option
Despite his achievements, the defender has not ruled out leaving Liverpool when his contract expires, although he remains determined to continue playing at the highest level.
Van Dijk acknowledged that his time at Anfield has been rewarding but stopped short of guaranteeing that it would continue beyond his existing agreement.
“I want to keep playing and continue what I’m doing. Let’s see what the season brings. I’ve had an amazing time already so far. If that will be extended, that’s the case. If not, then I will go somewhere else.”
Virgil van Dijk, Liverpool defender and captain
He also dismissed suggestions that the absence of an agreement was creating tension, maintaining that there was nothing significant to announce about his future. “There’s nothing to report at the moment but that doesn’t mean that there’s any stress or anything.”
For Liverpool, retaining their captain would mean preserving the experience and leadership of a defender who has been central to their domestic and European success over the past eight years.
However, Van Dijk’s comments indicate that he is prepared for either outcome, with his attention firmly on his responsibilities on the pitch as Liverpool continue their 2026/27 campaign.
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