Liverpool head coach Arne Slot believes Virgil van Dijk can remain at Anfield “even longer” than the length of his current contract, insisting the captain’s importance to the club will not be reduced by planned recruitment in defence.
Slot was asked about Van Dijk’s long-term future with Liverpool amid reports the club are moving towards the imminent arrival of £60 million defender Jeremy Jacquet. The Dutchman made it clear he sees no reason why the captain cannot continue leading the side for years to come.
“I don’t think we have to talk about him leaving any time soon,” Slot said, backing Van Dijk to stay “even longer” than his present deal.
The Liverpool boss also stressed that adding a new centre-back would be about strengthening competition rather than signalling an exit for the club’s defensive leader. Van Dijk has remained a key figure for Liverpool, both on the pitch and in the dressing room, and Slot reiterated that his standing at the club is not in question.
Talk of Jacquet’s €60m (£60m) move has increased in recent days, with Liverpool understood to be closing in on the defender. The situation has prompted discussion around how Liverpool’s back line could look in the future, but Slot’s message was that Van Dijk remains central to his plans.
With Liverpool preparing for the next phase under Slot, the coach is confident the captain still has plenty to offer, regardless of any incoming arrivals. Slot’s backing underlined the club’s stance that Van Dijk is not being pushed aside as Liverpool look to bolster the squad.
