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Tag: Virgil Van Dijk

Liverpool Transfer News LIVE: Alexander-Arnold Agreement Finalized, Salah and Van Dijk Set to Depart

Liverpool Transfer News Live: Reports suggest that Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk have both reportedly agreed to exit, while Milos Kerkez could offer a significant boost to the Reds.

Liverpool fans have been waiting for some positive transfer news after a rocky start to 2025. With Arsenal narrowing the gap to just four points at the top of the Premier League after their victory over Tottenham last night, and limited activity in the January transfer window, things haven’t been smooth sailing. Hopes of signing players like Martin Zubimendi and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia now seem to be dashed.

However, there’s a troubling update emerging from Saudi Arabia, with Mega FM reporting that both Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk have reportedly agreed to join teams in the Middle East this summer. If true, this could spell further challenges for Liverpool as the transfer window progresses.

On a more positive note, The i Paper has revealed that Milos Kerkez is leaning toward a move to Liverpool over competing offers from Manchester United and Manchester City. This gives the Reds a potential edge in their search for a new left-back.

More on Salah

Sky Sports has also reported that Al-Hilal is interested in signing Mohamed Salah, with the Saudi Arabian club ready to offer him a lucrative contract. The Pro League champions are on the lookout for a star to replace Neymar, who is expected to leave in the summer. According to Sky Sports News’ chief reporter Kaveh Solhelkol, Al-Hilal’s pursuit of Salah hinges on whether the Egyptian forward feels it’s time to leave Europe.

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Deal ‘Done’

In a significant development, Marca reports that Trent Alexander-Arnold has verbally agreed to move to Real Madrid. The deal is reportedly done, and it’s now a matter of when the transfer will be finalized. Real Madrid is eager to bring the Liverpool vice-captain in, possibly this month, or they may negotiate a pre-contract agreement for a summer free transfer.

Salah and Van Dijk ‘Agree to Leave’

In a dramatic twist, Khaled Qinan, a Saudi reporter, claims that both Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk have agreed to join Al-Hilal. According to Qinan, Salah has already reached “preliminary agreements” with the club, and a final deal could be imminent. Van Dijk, too, reportedly told Liverpool, “it’s over,” signaling his intention to move to Saudi Arabia. While this is a sensational claim, it remains uncertain whether both players would join the same club simultaneously.

With the uncertainty around these high-profile exits, Liverpool may need to expedite contract talks to secure their future.

January 17, 2025
What claims about Liverpool ‘breaking the bank’ for Virgil van Dijk’s contract really signify

Liverpool are expected to “break open the bank’s safe” to secure a new contract for Virgil van Dijk, according to a journalist from his home country, the Netherlands.

Although this has been interpreted by some as a major update on Van Dijk’s future, the suggestion that Liverpool is close to agreeing on a new deal with their captain seems to be off the mark.

Nonetheless, there is a prevailing belief in the Netherlands that the 33-year-old will soon sign a lucrative extension with Liverpool.

Marcel van der Kraan, a journalist for De Telegraaf, made this remark as part of a broader article on the growth of Dutch football, where he also discussed the influence of figures like Arne Slot and other Dutch players.

“Cody Gakpo, Ryan Gravenberch and Virgil van Dijk really started here in the Eredivisie. We didn’t realise then that they would become world stars,” Van der Kraan noted.

“The first is, according to the latest valuation in the New Year, a player worth more than €100 million. The second is heading in that direction and for Van Dijk they will break open the bank’s safe one of these days to extend him at Liverpool once again.”

Despite the buzz on platforms like X, this statement should not be seen as confirmation that a deal is imminent.

It is more an opinion than a fact, though one that reflects the general optimism surrounding Van Dijk’s ongoing talks with Liverpool.

The Netherlands captain has remained tight-lipped about his negotiations with the club but, like Mohamed Salah, has made it clear that there have been no significant developments so far.

Van der Kraan’s remarks align with the broader belief that Van Dijk is not only the most likely player to stay but also the most likely to finalize a deal first.

The idea of ‘breaking the bank’ is understandable; Van Dijk, despite his age, is unlikely to accept a pay cut at this stage in his career, confident that he can perform at a top level into his late 30s.

Currently earning around £220,000 per week, Liverpool will need to commit a substantial amount to keep hold of one of the greatest defenders in the club’s history.

Regarding this latest report, it is more of an extension of widely held beliefs than a fresh update.

January 11, 2025
“Liverpool Transfer Updates: Van Dijk Offer Rejected, $52M Tchouameni Bid, Alexander-Arnold Contract Talks”

Liverpool Transfer News Live: Huge Contract for Trent Alexander-Arnold, Potential Bid for Aurelien Tchouameni, and Interest in Morgan Gibbs-White

In the aftermath of Liverpool’s 2-2 draw against Manchester United at Anfield, the Reds remain comfortably six points clear at the top of the Premier League. It’s not a result that will disappoint manager Arne Slot, given their dominant position at the halfway mark.

Goals from Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah appeared to secure all three points for Liverpool, but Amad Diallo had other plans, ensuring the game ended level. Trent Alexander-Arnold had an off day by his standards, and while both teams shared the spoils, a draw seemed like a fair result.

In transfer news, Alexander-Arnold is reportedly being offered a massive new deal. According to the Daily Mirror, the new contract is worth a staggering $98 million (£78 million/€94 million). However, following his less-than-stellar performance against United, there are growing concerns over whether Real Madrid’s reported interest is distracting him from his duties at Anfield.

Meanwhile, Federico Chiesa, who was on the bench against Manchester United, is now being linked with a potential loan exit. Jamie Carragher has also weighed in, suggesting that Liverpool should target a new left-back during the winter transfer window.

Marc Guehi a Potential Target

In other defensive matters, Marc Guehi has been discussed internally by Chelsea as part of their search for a new center-back, according to Fabrizio Romano. The Crystal Palace defender has also been frequently linked with Liverpool recently, though it seems Chelsea is actively exploring options for the England international, who still has 18 months remaining on his contract at Selhurst Park.

Omar Marmoush Reports Denied

In further transfer updates, there have been no discussions between Eintracht Frankfurt and Manchester City regarding Omar Marmoush’s transfer, as confirmed by Florian Plettenberg. The Egyptian international had recently been linked with a move to Manchester City, a development that could have impacted Liverpool, who had been mentioned as a potential destination for the striker. However, Plettenberg has clarified that Frankfurt has received no offers, nor any indication from Marmoush that he’s looking to leave imminently.

Real Madrid Reject Virgil van Dijk

In a surprising twist, Real Madrid has reportedly turned down the opportunity to sign Virgil van Dijk. Spanish outlet Relevo claims that Van Dijk’s agents approached Real Madrid, offering the Liverpool captain for a potential summer 2025 move. However, the Madrid hierarchy seems uninterested in the defender, focusing instead on other players who better fit their current needs. Van Dijk is now reportedly close to agreeing to a new contract at Liverpool.

Liverpool’s Bid for Aurelien Tchouameni

A more speculative report has Liverpool allegedly making a bid for Aurelien Tchouameni, with Fichajes suggesting the Reds have offered $52 million (£41 million/€50 million) for the Real Madrid midfielder. However, this rumor should be taken with caution. Tchouameni is a player Liverpool has long admired, but it seems unlikely that he would be available for such a low price, especially considering Real Madrid paid significantly more for him. Moreover, the Frenchman has consistently expressed his preference to stay in Spain.

Federico Chiesa Loan?

Finally, another update on Federico Chiesa—the forward, who has struggled for game time at Liverpool since his summer move from Juventus, has reportedly become the subject of a potential loan deal. Foot Mercato claims Napoli is preparing to make a formal offer to take Chiesa on loan for the remainder of the season. With just four appearances under his belt, Chiesa could benefit from regular minutes elsewhere as he works to regain full fitness.

January 8, 2025
5 Key Takeaways from Liverpool vs Man Utd – Van Dijk Lashes Out at Teammate as Arne Slot’s Prediction Comes True

Liverpool was held to a 2-2 draw by Manchester United, despite being six points clear at the top of the Premier League. Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah both found the net for the Reds, while Lisandro Martinez scored for United, and Amad Diallo equalized to complete the stalemate.

While Arne Slot had previously emphasized Manchester United’s ability to perform even when struggling in the league, it became evident during the match. Here’s what we noted as the game progressed.

Contract Situation Sends a Message, but Alexander-Arnold Struggles A new banner on The Kop now reads, “Give Mo And Co Their Dough”, a reference to Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk, who are nearing the end of their contracts. As speculation about Alexander-Arnold’s future intensifies, especially with Real Madrid reportedly interested, the right-back’s struggles were apparent during the match. He failed to make a significant impact going forward and was often caught out defensively. Roy Keane humorously suggested Alexander-Arnold was more likely to end up at Tranmere Rovers than Real Madrid, but concerns over his form and potential distractions are becoming hard to ignore. Van Dijk visibly expressed his frustration when Alexander-Arnold took too long over a throw-in, but it was his lax defending that raised more serious concerns.

Manchester United Impressed Ahead of the game, many expected a dominant Liverpool performance, especially after their 7-0 victory over United in 2023 and the sizeable points gap in the standings. However, Manchester United defied expectations. In the first half, they created the better chances and played with confidence. Their 3-4-3 formation allowed them to build play effectively from the back while nullifying Liverpool’s press, with Luis Diaz often isolated. After Martinez put United ahead in the second half, Gakpo quickly responded, but Amad Diallo’s strike ensured the game ended in a draw. Liverpool were fortunate not to lose, as United’s performance was more than commendable.

Alexis Mac Allister Shines In midfield, Alexis Mac Allister was exceptional. Despite a slow start to the match, it was Mac Allister who played a pivotal role in getting Liverpool back into the game. He was instrumental in orchestrating their play, setting the tempo and threading clever passes through United’s press. His ability to think and move quickly set him apart from the other midfielders, with Curtis Jones and Ryan Gravenberch struggling to make an impact. Mac Allister’s display once again highlighted why he remains one of Liverpool’s standout performers this season.

Arne Slot’s Insight Proves Accurate Liverpool’s manager, Arne Slot, had warned about Manchester United’s potential danger before the match, recognizing the quality of their squad. “I think every game we play is a serious test,” Slot said. “Manchester United has much more quality than some other teams, so we know, not only because of the rivalry but also the quality players, it is a challenging game.” His foresight proved correct, as United showcased their resilience, earning a valuable point at Anfield. Slot had predicted that United could spring a surprise, and while Liverpool avoided defeat, it was two points dropped considering the gap in the standings.

Premier League Lead Remains Intact Despite the draw, Liverpool still leads the Premier League by six points, with a game in hand. That game could be crucial, as it’s a Merseyside derby at Goodison Park. However, this result will be seen as a missed opportunity, and Liverpool will be disappointed not to have capitalized on the chance to extend their lead further. While the performance was not disastrous, it was far from convincing, and Slot will be keen to quickly move on from this result and focus on the next challenge.

January 6, 2025
Liverpool Transfer Update: Van Dijk and Mo Salah Set to Stay as £150m Deal Gets Green Light

Liverpool may have an eventful January as they aim to strengthenq their squad in the race for the Premier League title, with discussions surrounding Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak, and Dani Olmo.

With the January transfer window now open, Liverpool could make some key moves. As the favorites to win the Premier League, further signings could push them closer to their goal. Players such as Isak and Olmo are already being linked with potential transfers to Anfield.

Beyond new signings, Liverpool will focus on securing their current players. Starting today, Virgil van Dijk, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Mohamed Salah are eligible to hold talks with foreign clubs. Liverpool is eager to keep these three, though Alexander-Arnold’s name has been connected to Real Madrid in recent reports. Here’s the latest news and rumors from Merseyside.

Van Dijk and Salah ‘expected’ to sign
Although Alexander-Arnold may depart sooner than expected, the future of Van Dijk and Salah seems more promising. According to The Athletic, both players are reportedly close to agreeing on new two-year contracts at Anfield. While the deals aren’t finalized and an official announcement is still some way off, talks are progressing, and there’s hope the duo will remain. Both have attracted interest from other clubs; reports from Italy have linked Van Dijk with Inter Milan, while Salah is frequently mentioned in connection with Saudi clubs.

Carragher green-lights Isak
Former Liverpool player Jamie Carragher has endorsed Newcastle’s Alexander Isak as a perfect signing for various Premier League clubs, including Liverpool. After Isak’s goal against Manchester United, Carragher praised him, saying: “Alexander, I absolutely adore you. I think you’re a fantastic player and if I had £150m, I’d pay it to have you at any club.” Isak has been in superb form this season, netting 13 goals, and still has over three years left on his contract at St James’ Park.

Liverpool enter Olmo race
Liverpool have entered the competition for Dani Olmo, joining several Premier League clubs in pursuit of the Spanish midfielder, whose future at Barcelona is uncertain. After joining Barcelona from RB Leipzig in the summer, Olmo has failed to be registered for the second half of the season, raising the possibility he could leave for free in January. According to Mundo Deportivo, Liverpool is among the clubs vying for his signature, with Manchester City and Manchester United also in the race. Chelsea, Tottenham, and Arsenal are reportedly considering a move as well. Olmo, 26, has made 15 appearances for Barcelona this season, scoring six goals, but a deal may be complicated, as his agent insists Olmo intends to remain at the Nou Camp for the rest of the campaign and isn’t exploring other options.

January 2, 2025
Liverpool Transfer Update: Virgil van Dijk’s Move Stalled as Arne Slot Targets Real Madrid Star

Liverpool are preparing for a transformative January transfer window that could significantly reshape Arne Slot’s squad for 2025, as three key players become free to negotiate with other clubs.

As 2025 approaches, Liverpool fans are filled with anticipation for what could be a historic year. Under Arne Slot’s management, the team is currently leading both the Premier League and the Champions League, with a chance to secure a quadruple—just three years after Jurgen Klopp’s side came agonizingly close. However, Slot knows that Liverpool cannot afford to rest on their current success and must keep improving, maintaining the momentum from performances like Sunday’s 5-0 victory at West Ham.

One avenue for that improvement could be through new signings, as Liverpool’s sporting director Richard Hughes has yet to make his first major acquisition. However, the club will be cautious not to regress, particularly in light of potential departures from key figures like Mo Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Here’s the latest transfer news from Anfield:

Inter Milan Back Off from Van Dijk Move

Liverpool are unlikely to see captain Virgil van Dijk leave for Inter Milan, as the Italian club has been put off by the centre-back’s wages. Van Dijk, 33, is approaching the final months of his contract and will be able to negotiate with other clubs starting January 1. Inter had been considering him as a potential replacement for Stefan de Vrij, another veteran defender whose contract is also expiring. However, Inter Live reports that Van Dijk’s €8 million (£6.6m) annual salary has made the deal less appealing to the Serie A champions.

Slot Eyes Real Madrid’s Tchouameni

Arne Slot is eager to secure a player Jurgen Klopp failed to bring to Liverpool: Aurelien Tchouameni. The French midfielder was strongly linked to Anfield in 2022 but ultimately joined Real Madrid. Tchouameni is currently filling in as a centre-back for Madrid, but Fichajes suggests that Slot is keen to integrate the 24-year-old into Liverpool’s midfield. After missing out on Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad in the summer, Liverpool has relied on Ryan Gravenberch in the No.6 role, but Slot sees Tchouameni as a key reinforcement.

Salah Provides Contract Update

Mo Salah has reiterated that his primary focus is on helping Liverpool secure the Premier League title. The 32-year-old winger has been open about his future at Anfield, revealing in November that no new contract offer has been made to him yet. After his impressive performance against West Ham, where he scored one goal and provided two assists, Salah told Sky Sports: “We are far away from [agreeing a new deal]. I don’t want to put something in the media and people start saying stuff, but nothing really has moved on. Now I am focused on the team and hopefully we win the Premier League.”

December 31, 2024
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.

December 30, 2024
Liverpool gets major update on contract negotiations with Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk

Liverpool awaits decisions from Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold regarding their futures, but there is encouraging news for the former two.

Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah are reportedly “very likely” to sign new contracts with Liverpool. The two, along with Trent Alexander-Arnold, are approaching the end of their current contracts, which expire at the season’s conclusion. All three players have received offers to extend their stays, but no decisions have been made yet.

The coming week could be crucial, as the trio may begin negotiating pre-contract agreements with foreign clubs starting in January unless they commit to new deals before then.

Although a final decision before the year’s end seems increasingly unlikely, positive news has emerged regarding Van Dijk and Salah. Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth, speaking to GIVEMESPORT, stated that the pair are “very likely” to stay at Anfield.

Sheth also suggested that while Alexander-Arnold’s future remains uncertain, he has been less vocal about it compared to his teammates.

This update follows Van Dijk’s recent comments hinting at his desire to remain at Liverpool. Ahead of the Boxing Day match against Leicester, the captain told Amazon Prime: “I love the club, the club loves me. I love the fans, the fans love me and it is a very good foundation to be successful. In my opinion I can play for another three, four years at least at the highest level. We will see what the future brings.”

Liverpool.com notes that it has always seemed likely that Van Dijk and Salah would extend their contracts, while Alexander-Arnold might require more persuasion, particularly with the allure of Real Madrid. Hopefully, Sheth’s prediction holds true, and there will be no long wait for Van Dijk and Salah to sign new deals. With January just around the corner, it seems they might consider other offers, but the hope is they will ultimately remain with Liverpool.

More news……

Liverpool star prefers Barcelona move if contract negotiations with Reds break down

The futures of several Liverpool players are currently uncertain due to their contract situations at Anfield.

Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mohamed Salah, and Virgil van Dijk are all in the final year of their contracts with the club. However, there is another player whose future at the club is also in doubt due to a lack of agreement over a new deal.

According to Spanish outlet Antena 2, Liverpool are facing difficulties in their efforts to extend the contract of winger Luis Diaz. The report indicates that if a new contract cannot be agreed upon, Diaz may prefer a move to Barcelona, although other prominent clubs, such as Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan, are also keeping a close eye on his situation.

Diaz has been a key player for Liverpool, with his attacking contributions playing a major role in the team’s success this season. He has helped the team reach the top of the Premier League and the Champions League standings.

The report also mentions that Liverpool value Diaz at approximately €80 million (£66.2m/$83.5m), a sum that financially-strapped Barcelona would find difficult to afford. Despite this, Diaz is reportedly keen on joining the Spanish giants, though Barcelona would face challenges in negotiating a transfer.

Luis Diaz has been an integral part of Liverpool’s squad, scoring nine goals and providing three assists so far this season. He has firmly established himself as the first-choice left-winger for the club.

Liverpool would prefer to retain Diaz and are likely to make every effort to ensure he remains at Anfield for the long term. With Salah approaching the final years of his career in the Premier League, it is crucial for the team to hold on to key players like Diaz, who can both score and create goals.

The Colombian international still has much room for growth in his career, and his potential is high. However, it remains to be seen whether his future will be at Liverpool or elsewhere.

In addition to Diaz’s situation, teammate Alexander-Arnold has been tipped to leave the club in the near future, while Lyon’s attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki has been linked with a move to Anfield.

December 26, 2024
Liverpool Transfer Update: Virgil van Dijk’s Brief Comment as Reds Secure Man City Prodigy

Liverpool may strengthen their squad in January as Arne Slot aims to sustain the Reds’ title challenge, but they have already secured a talented youngster from one of their closest competitors. The club has never hesitated to be active in the January transfer window.

Virgil van Dijk, currently Liverpool’s captain, is perhaps the most notable acquisition, having joined from Southampton in 2018. However, his future at the club is uncertain, with his contract expiring in a few months.

There are speculations that he could join Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold in leaving the club, as all three have yet to sign new deals. Despite this, work continues behind the scenes at Anfield, and new signings could be in the works. Here are the latest updates on rumors and confirmed deals from Liverpool:

Van Dijk remains tight-lipped about his future
Reds captain Virgil van Dijk firmly rejected a question regarding his future. The Dutch defender’s contract runs out this summer. After Liverpool’s 1-0 Champions League victory over Girona, he was asked about contract negotiations. He responded: “There is no word.”

When the interviewer pressed further, Van Dijk remained resolute, repeating: “no word” before adding, “no news to bring.”

Liverpool sign Manchester City prodigy
Liverpool have secured the signing of Lucas Clarke, a 16-year-old defender who was previously with Manchester City. Clarke has signed a contract with Liverpool and is expected to join their youth system.

He shared the news on social media, writing: “Delighted to have signed for @liverpoolfc can’t wait to get started #ynwa.”

This marks another instance of Liverpool poaching a promising young player from a rival club. In September, they signed Rio Ngumoha, a 16-year-old attacker, from Chelsea. Although Ngumoha had been offered a new contract by Chelsea, he chose to move to Anfield for a clearer path to first-team opportunities.

Klavan announces retirement
Former Liverpool defender Ragnar Klavan has announced his retirement from football at the age of 39. He posted a farewell message on social media: “Today, I’ll say goodbye to my first love. It’s time to put an end to the journey I began at the age of 15 and will conclude a 24-year career as a professional footballer. I want to thank you – dear football fans – for being with me throughout this time!”

He continued: “My journey as a footballer has been full of significant milestones and remarkable people. Reaching the European Championship playoffs with the Estonian national team and the entire iconic year of 2011. On the club level, of course, winning the Dutch league title and reaching the Champions League final with Liverpool. Undoubtedly, I’ve been very fortunate to work with many of the world’s best managers.”

“At 13, my dream was to reach the top-tier of English football and the Premier League. Yes – it took 17 years, but I achieved it (!), and as a cherry on top, of course, playing for Liverpool. Now I no longer can keep up with the youngsters on the field, but I can still DREAM BIG.”

December 12, 2024
Fabrizio Romano announces that a key Liverpool player’s contract is ‘nearly finalized’

Liverpool are in the “final stages” of securing a crucial contract extension, although it may not be the one their supporters are anticipating. This extension involves centre-backs Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk.

Currently, the focus at Anfield is on the expiring contracts of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, and Mohamed Salah, all key figures in Liverpool’s success under Jurgen Klopp and the early days of Arne Slot’s tenure.

Liverpool’s goal is to secure new deals for all three players, but transfer expert Fabrizio Romano suggests that Ibrahima Konate might be the first to sign an extension.

The French defender, 25, whose contract runs until 2026, is in the final stages of discussions with the club. Romano stated on his YouTube channel, “I can say that with Konate the conversation is at the final stages. So agreement almost done, Konate expected to extend his contract at Liverpool.” He added, “The club are very happy with the player. He’s injured now but in general they are very happy with his performances and professionalism.”

Konate has become one of the most dominant centre-backs in the Premier League this season. His solid partnership with Van Dijk has played a key role in Liverpool’s strong early-season form, making news of a new deal a significant boost for the club.

What is the situation with Alexander-Arnold, Van Dijk, and Salah?

As for Alexander-Arnold, Van Dijk, and Salah, Alexander-Arnold is reportedly Real Madrid’s top target for the right-back position in 2025. However, a move this winter has been ruled out, with Madrid aiming to strike a pre-contract agreement with the player instead. From January 1, Real Madrid can enter formal negotiations with Alexander-Arnold—unless Liverpool secures a new deal with him first. TEAMtalk understands that while Alexander-Arnold appreciates Real Madrid’s interest, he remains focused on discussions with Liverpool, giving them priority. He will only consider Real Madrid if talks with Liverpool break down.

On Van Dijk, David Ornstein recently reported that Liverpool had made an official offer to the Dutch defender some time ago, but it did not meet his expectations in terms of finances or contract duration. Despite this, the two parties are still in contact, and Liverpool hopes to reach an agreement soon.

Salah has expressed frustration over the delay in finalizing his new deal, openly admitting his disappointment at not receiving an official offer like Van Dijk has. Journalist Rudy Galetti revealed on December 4 that Salah’s preference is to sign a two-year contract, although he would be willing to accept a one-year deal if that’s all Liverpool offers. Galetti also shared that Salah’s “great dream” is to win the Ballon d’Or, and playing for a top European club like Liverpool gives him a better chance than moving to leagues like MLS or the Saudi Pro League. PSG has been linked with Salah, but their president, Nasser Al-Khelaifi, has distanced the club from pursuing him.

Latest Updates on Liverpool: Gordon, Gravenberch, Kelleher

In other news, The Daily Mail reported that Liverpool remain interested in signing Newcastle winger Anthony Gordon, who impressed in a recent 3-3 draw with the Reds.

Meanwhile, GiveMeSport claims that Alexander-Arnold is no longer the only Liverpool player on Real Madrid’s radar; Ryan Gravenberch, dubbed the “revelation of the season” by Dutch legend Ruud Gullit, is also attracting interest from the Spanish giants. Lastly, TEAMtalk examined five clubs—four in the Premier League—that could be potential destinations for goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, who is expected to leave Liverpool next summer.

December 7, 2024