Virgil van Dijk has been advised there’s only one club he should consider if he ever leaves Liverpool.
The Dutch defender has rediscovered his best form this season, playing a key role in Liverpool’s title push under Arne Slot.
The Reds’ defense has been solid, conceding just 16 goals in 16 games, even after a chaotic 6-3 win over Tottenham last Sunday.
Van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold all have just 12 months left on their contracts, allowing them to negotiate with other clubs starting January 1.
While Salah’s contract saga has dominated headlines and Alexander-Arnold is linked with Real Madrid, Van Dijk’s future has quietly flown under the radar.
Former Manchester United star Jaap Stam believes Liverpool must keep Van Dijk and questions whether there are better options for the defender elsewhere.
“Virgil knows Liverpool inside out,” Stam told Sport Lens. “Switching clubs means new teammates, a different style, and uncertainty. Just look at how Lionel Messi struggled initially at PSG after leaving Barcelona.
“At this stage of his career, Real Madrid might be his only realistic option in Europe. Perhaps he could eventually move to the U.S. for a lucrative deal, but right now, Liverpool should secure his future.”
Stam insists Van Dijk remains vital to Liverpool’s ambitions and suggests the club should offer him a one- or two-year extension.
He warns that finding a replacement of Van Dijk’s caliber would be nearly impossible, referencing Sir Alex Ferguson’s regret over selling Stam during his Manchester United tenure.
Van Dijk has been pivotal since his £75m move from Southampton in 2018, helping Liverpool win both the Premier League and Champions League.
With nearly 300 appearances for the club, he remains integral as Liverpool sit four points clear at the top of the Premier League during the festive season.