Journalist Reveals When Liverpool are ‘Expected’ to Announce Virgil Van Dijk’s Contract | OneFootball

Van Dijk’s Renewal Offers Stability as Liverpool March Towards the Title

In a season that has so often felt like a new chapter, with Arne Slot now at the helm and evolution rippling through the Liverpool squad, continuity may prove to be the club’s most valuable asset. David Lynch, speaking to Dave Davis for Anfield Index, has all but confirmed that Virgil Van Dijk will sign a new deal imminently, with the formal announcement expected before Sunday’s trip to Leicester.

“I would expect it this week because it’s pretty much all done as far as I understand,” Lynch stated. “It’s when not if, so I would be surprised if we get to the Leicester City game on Sunday and it hasn’t been announced by then.”

Van Dijk’s Value in Transition

The timing of the news could hardly be better. Van Dijk’s late winner against West Ham secured a vital 2-1 win, leaving Liverpool needing just two victories from their final six games to seal the Premier League title. It was the kind of moment that reminded fans—and perhaps decision-makers at the club—why keeping him is non-negotiable.

There’s a certain irony in how often supporters are gripped by fear when it comes to contract renewals, especially for ageing players. But as Lynch pointed out, much of that anxiety may have been avoidable.

“It’s exciting and good news for Liverpool and there has been so much time wasted by so many people worrying about it this season,” he said.

In truth, Van Dijk has never appeared to waver. He’s spoken like a man who sees his future at Anfield, and his performances—particularly in big games—suggest he remains the emotional and tactical anchor of this Liverpool side.

Photo: IMAGO

Strategic Planning Begins with Certainty

Slot’s appointment marked a new era, but it would have been unwise to tear down all pillars at once. With James Milner, Jordan Henderson, and Roberto Firmino already part of recent departures, Van Dijk’s extension brings vital balance to the transition.

“You could look back at our podcasts at the start of the season, and we both said that we expect Mohamed Salah and Virgil Van Dijk to renew, whilst Trent Alexander-Arnold would be trickier – and that’s exactly what has happened,” Lynch continued.

It’s a fair reflection of Liverpool’s internal dynamics. Salah and Van Dijk, experienced but still impactful, offer leadership and reliability, whereas Trent’s renewal touches on questions of ambition, positional role, and the club’s long-term strategy.

Setting the Tone for a Busy Summer

Beyond the feel-good factor, Van Dijk’s renewal allows Liverpool to tackle the summer with momentum. With defensive reinforcements likely to be on the shopping list—given Ibrahima Konaté’s fitness record and Joe Gomez’s potential departure—it’s essential that the club can plan around a figure like Van Dijk, rather than replace him.

“Now Liverpool can move forward and it’s a very good start to a summer that is expected to be very busy,” Lynch concluded.

Photo: IMAGO

If Van Dijk’s contract is the first domino, it’s a well-chosen one. It suggests Liverpool are determined not only to build but to build smart—retaining leaders, maintaining standards, and setting the tone for what could be a new period of success under Arne Slot.

His header at Anfield last weekend wasn’t just a match-winner; it was a symbolic reminder of who still sets the tone in this Liverpool team.