Liverpool captain Virgil Van Dijk has quashed rumors of a summer exit by extending his contact at the club until 2027.
The 33-year old who joined the Reds in January 2018 for £75 million, a then-world-record fee for a defender, was set to leave when his previous contract expires next June, but has now signed a two-year deal.
The Dutch captain in a statement released, confirmed he had no doubts about remaining at Anfield. He said: “I’m very happy, very proud. There are so many emotions obviously that go through my head right now speaking about it.
It’s a proud feeling, it’s a feeling of joy. It’s just incredible. The journey I’ve had so far in my career, to be able to extend it with another two years at this club is amazing and I’m so happy.”
Van Dijk has had a hugely successful spell at Anfield with one English Premier League title, one UEFA Champions League trophy, one UEFA Super Cup, one FIFA Club World Cup, a FA Cup, two League Cups in addition to several individual accolades in seven years.
The former Southampton defender is also on the verge of leading the team to a second Premier League title, with the Reds currently 13 points ahead of second-placed Arsenal with six games remaining.
“It was always Liverpool. That was the case. It was always in my head, it was always the plan and it was always Liverpool”, Van Dijk added.
“There wasn’t any doubt in my head that this is the place to be for me and my family. I’m one of Liverpool. Someone called me the other day an adopted Scouser – I’m really proud to hear these things, it gives me a great feeling.”
The Dutchman who scored the winner in Liverpool’s 2-1 win over West Ham United on Sunday as they edged closer to the title, will now stay at the club alongside Egyptian maestro Mohamed Salah who also extended his contract until 2027 six days ago.
The Reds travel to the Kings Power Stadium on Sunday to face relegation-threatened Leicester City, knowing a win moves them one step to a record-equaling 20th English League title.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
