With just over three months remaining on his contract at Anfield, van Dijk has been linked with several clubs, including Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, and Saudi Pro League team Al Hilal. ..Continue Reading
A report from Spanish outlet Fichajes suggests that the 33-year-old has ‘decided not to extend his Liverpool contract’ and is ‘ready for a new challenge,’ amidst interest from Bayern Munich.
According to the same source, Bayern has tabled a ‘very enticing offer,’ offering van Dijk a ‘highly lucrative deal.’
Previously, van Dijk has expressed a strong ambition to continue competing at the highest level, indicating that a move to the Saudi Pro League might not align with his aspirations.
During a recent press briefing ahead of the Netherlands’ Nations League quarter-final against Spain, Koeman reiterated this sentiment.
When questioned about van Dijk’s future by Dutch journalist Noa Vahle, Koeman shared his perspective on the matter.
According to the publication Mee Met Oranje, Vahle said: “Van Dijk is 33 years old and very experienced. So I don’t know if you advise him in that? His contract with Liverpool expires and you are impressed with how he is playing under Arne Slot. I assume you want him to re-sign… meaning Virgil plays for Liverpool until next year’s World Cup?”
Koeman proceeded to give an insight into Van Dijk’s thought process, confirming that the defender wants to continue playing at the highest level amid interest from Saudi Arabia.
“Whether he signs with Liverpool or another big club, that’s all good for me,” Koeman replied. “We’ll see what happens. And what I understand from Virgil is that he is still looking for the level he is at now.”
After Liverpool’s Champions League exit to Paris Saint-Germain last week, Van Dijk conceded he has “no idea” what the future holds.
Arne Slot would later stress his desire to have the Dutchman on board for next campaign.
“The only thing I know is that I want Virgil to be here next season,” Slot said in his pre-match press conference ahead of the Carabao Cup final. “All the rest, these talks about contracts, that is not what I do here.”
