Liverpool has been warned that it would be an odd decision to let Virgil van Dijk leave this summer. The Dutch defender, whose contract is up at the end of the season alongside Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold, has seen some progress in discussions over a new deal, but time is running out for the 33-year-old to secure his future before potentially hitting free agency.
Ex- Manchester United defender Jaap Stam has weighed in, suggesting Van Dijk is still among the elite in his position globally and that Liverpool’s top brass should be pulling out all the stops to ensure he stays at Anfield.
“He’s been fantastic for Liverpool,” Stam commented. “As you approach the end of your contract, especially at his age, you have to carefully consider what you want next. Whether it’s staying, making a new step, or seeking a different challenge, it’s understandable that the decision might take some time.
“From the club’s perspective, though, it would be strange to let him go. He’s still a phenomenal player and remains one of the best – if not the best – defender in the world. Liverpool should be doing everything possible to keep him.
“He’s been so important for the club and has earned the respect of everyone. Under a new manager, he can still be successful, win more trophies, and continue building on what he’s already accomplished. I see him staying at Liverpool, to be honest. It would be a real shock if they let him go.”
Since taking over the captain’s armband from former gaffer Jurgen Klopp nearly two years back, Van Dijk has been monumental for the Reds. He notched the deciding goal in last season’s League Cup final and now verges on clinching the Premier League crown.
With the team helmed by new manager Arne Slot, also from the Netherlands, Van Dijk has played a pivotal role in establishing an eleven-point lead for Liverpool at the top of the table, with just seven fixtures left to play.
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Stam added: “I think everyone in Holland would be thrilled if Liverpool wins the title. Maybe it’s a bit different for us as former (Manchester) United players, but regardless, there’s a lot of pride in seeing Arne Slot doing well as a manager and especially seeing Virgil achieving so much.
“He’s been such a massive figure, not just for Liverpool, but for Dutch football as a whole. His journey, his growth, and his success have been incredible to watch. He’s built his career step-by-step and has earned everything along the way.
“For Dutch people, there’s a lot of pride in seeing him succeed. And with other Dutch players in the Liverpool squad, it’s something everyone back home is keeping an eye on. We can only be proud of what he’s accomplished and continues to accomplish.”
