28 May 2024 , 07:16
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Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has quashed speculation of a summer transfer move by insisting that he's 'enthusiastic' about next season under new manager Arne Slot.
Van Dijk, 32, is approaching the final year of his contract with the Reds, who've appointed Feyenoord boss Slot to replace the outgoing Jurgen Klopp. After Klopp dropped a bombshell in January by confirming that he'd leave the club at the end of the season, Van Dijk hinted that his time at Anfield might be up, too.
But the Dutch defender has now allayed fears of his departure, adding that he's his 'confident' Slot's reign will be a 'big success'. "I still have a year left on my contract. I am club captain and I have made it clear I am there for the new coach and enthusiastic over the next season," Van Dijk declared on Monday.
"Obviously, there will be a lot of changes but I am confident we will make a big success of it. I congratulated him of course and I'm really pleased for him and his family. We spoke about the team and the future, but now my focus is fully on the national team."
The Liverpool defender, who was speaking at the start of the Netherlands' training camp ahead of this summer's European Championship, reiterated his desire to remain on Merseyside earlier this month before Slot's long-awaited appointment was confirmed.
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"I am very happy here, I love the club and you can see that as well. It's a big part of my life already," Van Dijk told TNT Sports. "There will be a big transition and I am part of that.
"There will be a lot of changes happening and, I wouldn't say scary is the right word, but it is quite interesting and exciting what will happen now."
Your turn! Should Liverpool offer Virgil van Dijk a new contract? Give us your verdict in the comments section
Virgil van Dijk is preparing for Euro 2024 with the Netherlands (ProShots/Icon Sport via Getty Images)A recent report from the Athletic claimed that new Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes is well-placed to help extend the 32-year-old's stay beyond his current deal with expires in June 2025. Former Bournemouth chief Hughes has worked closely with Cherries duo Max Aarons and Philip Billing, who have the same agent as Van Dijk in Neil Fewings.
Hughes is also targeting a new centre-back in the summer transfer window, with Joel Matip confirmed to be leaving at the end of his contract next month, leaving Slot short on options in central defence. Sporting Lisbon prospect Goncalo Inacio and Lille wonderkid Leny Yoro are among those to be linked.
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