First Salah, now ‘growing expectation’ Van Dijk will stay

Van Dijk and Salah Edge Closer to New Deals as Liverpool Eyes Bright Future

There’s growing optimism within Liverpool that both Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah will remain at the club, with new contracts reportedly nearing completion.

After months of negotiations, sources close to the club have revealed that Van Dijk is on the verge of agreeing a new two-year extension. Salah, meanwhile, is in advanced talks over a similar deal. While neither contract has been finalized just yet, it would take an unexpected twist for either star to depart before next season.

This development marks a significant boost for Liverpool, who currently sit 11 points clear at the top of the Premier League and are poised to secure their 20th league title.

Strategic Stability: Why Two-Year Deals Matter.

The club’s preference for two-year contracts is no coincidence. Beyond securing two of their most influential players, it provides a layer of stability for manager Arne Slot, whose debut season has been clouded by contract uncertainty surrounding several key figures.

With Van Dijk and Salah’s situations nearing resolution, attention now turns to Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose future remains uncertain. Talks with Real Madrid over a potential free transfer continue, and hopes of retaining him are fading.

Van Dijk Stays, Centre-Back Search Paused.

Should Van Dijk finalize his new deal, Liverpool’s immediate need for a new starting central defender would ease significantly. Recruitment efforts had already begun in preparation for a possible departure, with targets including Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace and Dean Huijsen of Bournemouth.

Now, those plans may be shelved—at least temporarily. However, with Ibrahima Konate entering the final year of his contract, another decision looms. The futures of Jarell Quansah and Joe Gomez also remain uncertain as the club evaluates long-term options in defense.

Salah’s Impact and Transfer Strategy Ahead.

Salah’s value to the team is undeniable. At 32, he has already racked up 54 goal contributions this season—including 32 goals—proving he remains among Europe’s elite forwards. Prior to recent developments, insiders suggested strong interest from the Saudi Pro League, but Liverpool now appear set to retain their talisman.

With financial flexibility after a quiet summer in the market, Liverpool is expected to be proactive in the upcoming transfer window. A central striker tops the wishlist, with Alexander Isak of Newcastle among the dream targets—though prising him away from St James’ Park is expected to be difficult.

Full-Back Reinforcements Also in Focus.

Given Alexander-Arnold’s ongoing negotiations and uncertainty over Andy Robertson’s long-term role in Slot’s tactical system, reinforcements at full-back are also being explored. Targets reportedly include Milos Kerkez of Bournemouth and Antonee Robinson of Fulham, as the club aims to future-proof its defensive flanks.

Conclusion: Calm Amid Change at Anfield.

If all goes to plan, the renewed contracts for Van Dijk and Salah would send a clear message: Liverpool’s next chapter is being built on stability, leadership, and proven quality. With smart recruitment ahead and key figures staying put, Arne Slot’s side appears well-positioned to remain a dominant force in English and European football.