Liverpool Have One Eye on Future Club Captain as Virgil van Dijk Enters Final 18 Months of Contract

Liverpool FC are planning ahead for life after their talismanic captain, Virgil van Dijk, as his current contract nears its final 18 months in summer 2026.[1][4]

Van Dijk, now 34, signed a two-year extension in April 2025, committing to the Reds until June 2027 after initial talks stalled.[2][5][6] The Dutch defender, Liverpool's captain since 2023, earns around £400,000-£460,000 per week, making him Europe's highest-paid centre-back.[5][6] His leadership has been pivotal in securing major honours, with 314 appearances and 27 goals since joining from Southampton in 2018.[1]

Despite recent stability—following Mohamed Salah's renewal—the club is eyeing a long-term successor to maintain defensive strength under manager Arne Slot.[1][2] Reports claim Liverpool are preparing a massive €90m (£78m) bid for Tottenham's "world-class" defender Micky van de Ven, viewed as Van Dijk's ideal heir.[2][7] The 24-year-old Dutch international, contracted to Spurs until 2029, is in talks for a lucrative new deal that could double his £90,000 weekly wage.[2]

Van de Ven's pace and composure align perfectly with Slot's system, and sources suggest he could be open to Anfield, though Tottenham are determined to retain him amid Liverpool's Premier League title defence.[2] This move signals FSG's proactive succession strategy, especially after missing out on other targets like Marc Guehi.[2]

Speculation persists about Van Dijk's future, including Saudi interest from Al-Nassr, but his commitment remains firm for now, eyeing Netherlands' 2026 World Cup.[3] Liverpool's gaze on Van de Ven positions him as a potential future club captain, blending youth with proven quality.[2]

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