Virgil van Dijk tells Liverpool fans ‘it’s official’ in new announcement
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has given Liverpool an “official” announcement amid months of speculation on the defender’s future.
The Dutch international is one of three key players for the Reds with contracts expiring this summer, alongside Real Madrid target Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Ballon d’Or front-runner Mohamed Salah.
Van Dijk has been a rock at the back for Liverpool since joining in January 2018 from Southampton for £75million.
However, the cracks have begun to show of late this season, and Van Dijk had a bizarre error against PSG.
Liverpool captain announces ‘Virgil’s legacy trophy’
Alongside the Dutch international’s former club, Willem II, Van Dijk has announced the first edition of “Virgil’s Legacy Trophy”, a youth tournament for some of the world’s biggest clubs.
In a post on Instagram, the former Celtic man made the announcement, explaining his reasons for starting the tournament, saying: “It’s official. I’m proud to announce that along with Willem II, we’re bringing back the international youth tournament this September.
“The world’s biggest clubs will arrive in Tilburg and play in the first ‘Virgil’s Legacy Trophy’ U13s tournament.
“I feel strongly about inspiring others & want to give the next generation of players a proper platform to perform. The best pitches, facilities & officials.”
Van Dijk spent 11 years with the Willem II academy, but failed to make a senior appearance for the team, joining Groningen in 2011, and spending two years there before moving to Celtic in 2013.
Liverpool identify Dean Huijsen as Van Dijk successor
Football Insider Verdict
Liverpool have identified Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen as a summer transfer target, Mick Brown told Football Insider exclusively.
The Spanish centre-back has impressed since joining Bournemouth in the summer from Juventus, and is believed to have a £50million release clause.
| 2024/25 Premier League stats | Van Dijk |
| Appearances | 29 |
| Starts | 29 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Yellow cards | 3 |
| Minutes | 2,610 |
Huijsen’s style of play is reminiscent of Van Dijk’s, both defenders are supremely composed, both on and off the ball, both are aerially dominant, and both are vocal leaders on the pitch.
Whilst Liverpool, and their fans, are both holding out hope their captain signs a new deal at the club, the Dutch defender is 33-years-old, and will need replacing within the next few years.
Even if Van Dijk does renew his deal, there is an argument to be made that Huijsen is simply too good to miss out on, and the Spaniard will not be on the market for long, with Juventus and Real Madrid both reportedly interested in the 19-year-old.