Arne Slot says that he wants to work “for a long time” with Virgil van Dijk “, because the future of the Liverpool captain will remain in the air this season this season.
Van Dijk is one of the three Liverpool stars from the contract at the end of the season, together with Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold, and is now able to talk to clubs abroad about pre-contract agreements to share Taking a free transfer in the next window.
However, the Dutchman is expected to bind his future to Liverpool and continue his stay for a ninth season.
Van Dijk was one of the goal scorers on Thursday when the Reds fell an EFL deficit in the hall of EFL Cup by beating Tottenham 4-0 in Anfield to book their place in a first final.
Since he made his Liverpool debut in January 2018, Van Dijk has more goals in all competitions than any other Premier League defender (26).
Van Dijk has so far also contributed to 10 clean sheets in 23 Premier League matches this season, and Slot greeted the 33-year-old impact on the team.
“Virgil deserves every compliment he receives,” Slot said a press conference on Friday.
“He has been excellent for this club for so many years and since I am here, he has also been excellent for me.
26 -Since he made his Liverpool debut in January 2018, Virgil van Dijk has more goals in all competitions than any other Premier League defender (26). Colos. pic.twitter.com/0t9kipooz8
– Optajoe (@Optajoe) February 6, 2025
“[The 4-0 win over Tottenham] Was an example of that. He was aggressive in a good way, the team led with and without the ball he was sharp and ready.
“It was no coincidence that it took 80 minutes for Tottenham's first shot [of note]. Like many others, Virgil had a good season, but he wants to make it a great season.
“[I hope his future holds] Good health is the first thing I want him, and I hope to keep working with him for a long time, although I don't think that will surprise you. “
Liverpool is still fighting on four fronts this season and has the chance to take a step closer to a new final in the FA Cup fourth round this weekend.
They are confronted on Sunday with Plymouth Argyle, although the match will be too early for Alexander-Arnold, who missed their traces due to injury.
“[Plymouth] Get too early for him, “said Slot.
“Difficult to say for Everton. It doesn't take months or even weeks, but it's only three days after Plymouth, so let's wait and see if he's available.
“We also look for the long term and we don't want to take any risks, but if he is fit, we will of course use it.”
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