Liverpool is on the verge of announcing contract extensions for star players Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah. Both players have agreed to two-year deals, keeping them at Anfield until 2027. As news of the agreements slowly emerges, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano shared insights into the behind-the-scenes efforts that helped secure the contracts.
Romano first highlighted the significant role of Liverpool’s sporting director, Richard Hughes, in getting the deals done. Hughes has been under pressure recently, but his efforts have paid off with both Van Dijk and Salah agreeing to stay at the club. Despite heavy interest from the Saudi Pro League in both players, Salah and Van Dijk opted to stay with Liverpool, with Salah remaining especially focused on the Reds and rejecting massive offers from the Middle East.
Liverpool Man ‘Made a Difference’ in Van Dijk, Salah Extensions
Aside from Richard Hughes, Romano also emphasized the influence of manager Arne Slot. Slot, who was tasked with replacing the legendary Jurgen Klopp, has proven his worth both on and off the pitch. Romano confirmed that both Salah and Van Dijk have a positive relationship with Slot, which was a crucial factor in securing their contract extensions.
Romano pointed out that Slot’s ability to connect with the players and show them the long-term vision for the club made a significant difference. He noted that while replacing Klopp was no easy task, Slot has shown he can lead Liverpool into a successful future.
Despite the positive news regarding Salah and Van Dijk, Romano also mentioned that Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future remains uncertain. Alexander-Arnold is expected to join Real Madrid as a free agent, despite Liverpool’s efforts to convince him to stay.
With these key contract extensions, Liverpool fans have much to celebrate, knowing that two of their best players will remain at the club for several more years.
