Virgil van Dijk has signed a new two-year contract with Liverpool, reportedly making him the highest-paid defender in European football.
This announcement follows shortly after Mohamed Salah also signed a new deal last week, securing key players for Liverpool`s future.
The Dutch defender`s previous contract was set to expire this summer. However, after successful negotiations, the 33-year-old has agreed to extend his stay at Anfield until 2027.
Speaking to club media about his new contract, Liverpool`s captain expressed his happiness and pride. He mentioned the strong emotions he felt, emphasizing his joy in continuing his journey with the club for another two years.
According to reports, Van Dijk`s new deal will see him earning £400,000 per week. This salary surpasses that of Real Madrid`s David Alaba, who reportedly earns just under £360,000 a week, making Van Dijk the best-paid defender in Europe.
However, Al-Hilal`s Kalidou Koulibaly reportedly earns even more, exceeding £550,000 per week. Van Dijk`s contract includes guaranteed wages and performance-based incentives.
Van Dijk reiterated his commitment to Liverpool, stating it was always his priority and plan to stay with the club. He feels deeply connected to Liverpool and its community, embracing the feeling of being an “adopted Scouser.”
To date, Van Dijk has made 314 appearances for Liverpool, scoring 27 goals and providing 13 assists. His recent goal against West Ham brought Liverpool closer to the Premier League title. If Liverpool secures the title, it will be their 20th English league title, equaling Manchester United`s record, and Van Dijk`s second league title with the club, following their 2019/20 success.
Since joining Liverpool, Van Dijk has also collected winner`s medals in the Champions League, FA Cup, Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup, Community Shield, and two League Cups, highlighting his significant contribution to the club`s success.
The contract extensions of Van Dijk and Salah mean Liverpool has secured two key players whose contracts were expiring this summer. Earlier reports suggested Trent Alexander-Arnold might leave for Real Madrid when his contract ends, but these new deals indicate Liverpool`s intent to maintain a strong core team.
