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Carragher Hints at Van Dijk Contract News Following Salah’s Liverpool Commitment

Salah’s Deal Signals Shift in Contract Strategy

Liverpool’s decision to tie down Mohamed Salah to a new two-year contract has not only offered clarity over the club’s attacking future—it’s also potentially set the stage for Virgil van Dijk to follow suit.

Photo: IMAGO

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has suggested that an announcement regarding Van Dijk’s contract could be imminent, hinting that the timing around Salah’s renewal was carefully managed by the club’s hierarchy.

“Listen, I think there may be some news on Virgil van Dijk next week,” Carragher told Sky. “I think the fact the Mo Salah news came out, maybe not trying to do two players on one day.”

“Maybe not trying to steal the thunder of either of the players, Virgil van Dijk or Mo Salah. I think Mo Salah had his moment a few days ago and I’m sure that will be the case with Virgil van Dijk next week.”

It’s a subtle but telling nod from Carragher, who remains closely connected to the rhythm of Anfield. If Salah’s extension is the first domino, Van Dijk’s deal may not be far behind.

Van Dijk Poised to Extend Stay at Anfield

The 32-year-old Dutch defender had hinted earlier this month that an update on his future was forthcoming, stating there would be news “soon”. That optimism appears well-founded, particularly in light of Carragher’s remarks and the club’s broader ambition to build stability ahead of the new era under Arne Slot.

Photo: IMAGO

Van Dijk, who has been a towering presence in Liverpool’s back line since his arrival in 2018, remains integral to the club’s leadership group. With Trent Alexander-Arnold heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid, keeping Van Dijk becomes even more important—not just from a tactical perspective, but from a dressing room standpoint too.

Salah’s Commitment Boosts Recruitment Potential

Salah’s new deal, and the certainty it brings, extends beyond his own influence on the pitch. As Carragher pointed out, it has ramifications for Liverpool’s summer recruitment plans.

“It’s not just Liverpool players now, probably more for future Liverpool players, maybe players Liverpool are looking to tout in the summer.”

“The manager mentioned that in his press conference. When you’re speaking to players and their agents over these next few months, it’s always helpful to say that Mohamed Salah’s staying next season.”

In a summer where Liverpool aim to reshape parts of the squad, having a figure like Salah publicly committed can be used as a persuasive tool during negotiations. Potential signings will be reassured by the fact that the club’s most prolific forward remains part of the project.

Momentum Building for Contract Clarity

Salah’s long-anticipated renewal ends months of speculation, particularly amid interest from Saudi Arabia and growing frustration among supporters. Speaking after putting pen to paper, he said:

“Of course I’m very excited – we have a great team now… I signed because I think we have a chance to win other trophies and enjoy my football. I have had the best years of my career here.”

For Liverpool, the job now is to carry that momentum forward. Carragher’s comments suggest Van Dijk’s contract could be next—and that would offer further reassurance that the club is securing the spine of its squad for the challenges ahead.

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