Virgil van Dijk contract latest: David Ornstein outlines Liverpool talks outlook

Virgil van Dijk’s Liverpool future could remain unresolved until the spring, with David Ornstein suggesting that any new contract would depend on the captain’s performances and the terms of a potential agreement.

Answering a question about the defender in The Athletic FC’s latest Q&A, Ornstein said he was not aware of renewal talks currently taking place. However, he also stressed that Liverpool have previously conducted such discussions quietly.

For supporters hoping for an early commitment, this is an update that calls for patience. There is a possible route to another season at Anfield, but no indication that an extension has been agreed or that formal negotiations are under way.

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Ornstein explains Liverpool contract position

“I don’t know of talks right now, and I don’t think that would surprise you at this stage,” Ornstein said.

“Previously, Liverpool have liked to keep that sort of thing very low-key and under the surface until it comes to fruition one way or the other.”

That distinction is central to the update. A lack of publicly known discussions does not establish that Liverpool have decided against a renewal. Equally, the possibility of private contact should not be presented as evidence that negotiations have begun.

“So it wouldn’t surprise you if some sort of dialogue is taking place, but we don’t know about it right now,” he added.

Liverpool supporters have experienced uncertainty over Van Dijk’s future before. Ornstein pointed back to the previous renewal process in 2025, when agreements were not reached until around April.

Spring could bring greater clarity

“I wouldn’t expect any clarity on the situation, if precedent is anything to go by, until maybe the spring,” Ornstein said.

That is his assessment of the likely timing, rather than a deadline set by either the club or the player. It nevertheless suggests that an immediate announcement should not be expected.

Waiting would also give Liverpool more evidence on which to base their decision. Van Dijk’s current level, his ability to maintain it and the financial terms would all matter when considering another commitment.

Ornstein remained positive about what the defender can contribute.

“Despite his age, in my eyes Van Dijk still appears to be playing pretty well and has a lot to offer.”

Van Dijk extension would carry significant considerations

Van Dijk turns 36 in July, and Ornstein identified both his age and the size of his existing contract as factors Liverpool would need to weigh.

The club’s owners have traditionally been cautious about commitments to players over 30, although exceptions have been made, including for Van Dijk himself.

A further year would therefore require more than an appreciation of everything he has already achieved. Liverpool would need to be satisfied that the arrangement made sense for the season ahead.

Ornstein raised the possibility of a deal covering 2027-28, which would take Van Dijk to a decade at Anfield following his arrival from Southampton.

That milestone could appeal to both parties, but it remains a potential outcome.

“But they will only do it on merit and if the deal’s right,” he said.

Mutual respect offers grounds for optimism

Ornstein recalled that Van Dijk had made his Liverpool preference clear when signing his previous extension. He also described those negotiations as amicable.

“And I suspect he would like to continue further, as long as his body and his level allow that,” he said.

That offers grounds for optimism, without amounting to confirmation of the player’s current intentions or Liverpool’s plans.

For now, the strongest conclusion is that the question remains open. Van Dijk’s performances will help shape the discussion, while the previous relationship between the parties provides a useful foundation should talks develop.

As Ornstein put it: “That’s one for that first part of 2027.”