Van Dijk was named Liverpool captain in 2023 following Jordan Henderson’s departure from the Premier League club.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Liverpool captain and Netherlands international, Virgil van Dijk has signed a new two-year contract extension with the Premier League club.
TheNiche had earlier reported that Egypt winger, Mohamed Salah, who also signed a new contract with the Reds last week, recently urged Van Dijk to stay at Anfield.
Speaking after Liverpool’s narrow 2-1 win over West Ham, Salah said: “I am glad we managed to do that [his contract] before the end of the season. Hopefully, Virgil will be next.
“He (Van Dyke) can do whatever he wants, but I would love to play with him next season.”
The Dutchman”s previous contract is.expected to expire at the end of the 2024/2025 season.
But the 33-year-old centre-back has now decided to listen to Salah and commit his future to Liverpool.
ALSO READ: Salah urges Van Dijk to sign for Liverpool, says I’ll love to play with you’
“It was always Liverpool,” said Van Dijk, who had been linked with a move to Paris St-Germain.
“That was the case. It was always in my head, it was always the plan and it was always Liverpool.”
The Dutch defender, who has made 314 appearances for the Reds, was named Liverpool captain in 2023 following Jordan Henderson’s departure.
Speaking further on the contract, 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.
“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.”
