Liverpool Transfer Update: Virgil van Dijk Move Rejected as Reds Clarify Stance on Sale

Virgil van Dijk is among three key Liverpool players whose contracts are set to expire at the end of this season, with no significant public progress in contract discussions thus far. As the January transfer window approaches, Liverpool’s focus will shift towards these contract situations.

The futures of Van Dijk, Mo Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold remain uncertain. All three players’ deals will run out at the season’s end, with little indication of any resolution regarding their contract talks. Real Madrid has been closely watching Alexander-Arnold, with the Spanish club having long been linked to the right-back. Meanwhile, both Salah and Van Dijk are hoping to extend their time at Anfield.

In addition to contract talks, Liverpool is looking to strengthen their squad under new manager Arne Slot as they aim for the Premier League title. Mirror Football provides an update on the latest Liverpool transfer news.

Van Dijk’s Transfer Rumors Dismissed
Real Madrid is not planning to sign Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk. Though his contract is set to expire at the end of the season, the Spanish club had been rumored to be interested in the Dutch defender. However, Marca reports that these rumors were unfounded, with Los Blancos ‘refusing’ to make ‘any offers’ for Van Dijk. While he is admired at the Bernabeu, he is not seen as part of their future plans. Madrid is instead focused on pursuing younger defenders as they prepare for a defensive overhaul.

Alexander-Arnold Predicted to Depart

Former Liverpool player John Arne Riise believes Trent Alexander-Arnold will leave Anfield next summer when his contract expires. Arne Riise suggests that the right-back may be looking for a new challenge. “There’s never been anyone like him in world football or at Liverpool,” Arne Riise told Amazon Prime. “He is exceptional. In modern football, you have to be good defensively and offensively, he is exceptionally good going forward with his passing and vision.”

“I think he’s happy, but it’s more about Trent himself and what he wants from his career. Does he need something new, or is he happy here? That is the big question. I think he will go.”

Reds Firm on Sale Stance
Liverpool is unlikely to sell any players during the January transfer window. Several players have seen limited playing time since Arne Slot took over as Jurgen Klopp’s replacement, but The Athletic reports that Slot is ‘happy’ with the current squad. With a demanding second half of the season ahead, Slot wants to maintain squad depth to guard against injuries.

Tyler Morton, in particular, is unlikely to leave unless a midfielder is brought in. Despite potential interest in the 22-year-old, Liverpool values his attitude and work ethic in training.