Virgil van Dijk says there’s been no talk with Liverpool about his long-term future at Anfield.
The Netherlands international has just over a year left on his current deal and insists the Reds have sufficient time, if they wish to extend his contract.
His comments are relayed by De Telegraaf, who state the Liverpool star ‘doesn’t rule out a longer stay’ at the Merseyside club.
The centre-back, who will turn 33 years of age in July, isn’t surprised that Liverpool haven’t yet opened talks with him over a possible extension, as they were focused on appointing Arne Slot as Jürgen Klopp’s successor.
“A new contract hasn’t yet been discussed. That isn’t surprising, because the club was completely busy with the new trainer, the staff and everything. Then it doesn’t make sense to start working with players. You can always talk and we will see how that will go,” he said.
The former Southampton man has already held talks with the incoming Liverpool manager and feels that he will be part of Slot’s plans next season.
“I didn’t feel like this was a farewell conversation and I think he also sees me in Liverpool 2.0. I got the feeling that he’s happy that I’m still there and will be there next season, so that I can help him where necessary. This allows us to achieve success on the field,” Van Dijk explained.
The Liverpool defender said he discussed “all kinds of things” with Slot and the manager has now urged him to focus on the Euros.
Van Dijk also opened up on the emotions he experienced during Klopp’s last game in charge with Liverpool against Wolverhampton Wanderers on May 19th.
“I’m very emotional, you know. You might not say that. I don’t cry often, but it has been very intense in recent weeks for different reasons,” he added.
“In the last 10 minutes of the last match it became clear to me that this was the end of an era. With a staff that has meant a lot to my family and me. I’ll never forget.”
