Van Dijk, Salah close to new Liverpool deals

There is growing momentum behind efforts by Liverpool to keep two of their most influential players, with captain Virgil van Dijk and forward Mohamed Salah.

While the deals are not yet finalized, the expectation within the club is that both will be completed soon, barring any late surprises.

Securing the futures of Van Dijk and Salah represents a major step forward for the Premier League leaders, who currently sit 11 points clear at the top of the table.

The timing is especially important as the club navigates its first season under manager Arne Slot, whose tenure has been clouded by uncertainty surrounding the contracts of several senior players.

The two-year length of the proposed deals is strategic. It not only allows Liverpool to retain key experience and quality on the pitch but also helps avoid the kind of contract-related distractions that have accompanied this campaign.

While Van Dijk and Salah’s futures now seem clearer, right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold’s situation remains unresolved, with the 25-year-old in talks over a free transfer to Real Madrid.

Van Dijk’s decision to stay would significantly ease the burden on Liverpool’s recruitment department. Had the 33-year-old departed, the club would have needed to invest heavily in an elite central defender.

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Players like Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi and Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen had been evaluated, but those plans may now be put on hold.

That said, Ibrahima Konaté’s contract is also nearing its end, and no agreement has yet been reached, which may force the club into further defensive planning. The futures of Joe Gomez and Jarell Quansah also remain uncertain.

Salah, meanwhile, has continued to deliver at an elite level. At 32, he has already contributed 54 goals and assists this season, making his extension equally vital.

The Saudi Pro League had hoped to lure the Egyptian forward this summer, but the chances of a move now seem remote as negotiations with Liverpool progress positively.

Looking ahead, Liverpool are expected to be active in the summer transfer window. With their finances in a strong position, the search for a central striker is likely to top their priorities. Newcastle’s Alexander Isak is admired, though a move appears unlikely at this stage.

The Reds are also monitoring options at full-back, including Fulham’s Antonee Robinson and Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, amid ongoing uncertainty over both Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson’s long-term roles.

Reported by BBC