Van Dijk Breaks Silence on Transfer Situation Following FA Cup Victory – Salah

Following Liverpool's emphatic 3-0 FA Cup fourth-round victory over Brighton on Saturday, captain Virgil van Dijk addressed speculation surrounding his own future and that of teammate Mohamed Salah, breaking his silence amid ongoing contract uncertainties.[2][3]

Van Dijk, whose contract expires at the end of the season alongside Salah's, expressed a strong personal desire for the Egyptian forward to remain at Anfield. "I always want Mo to stay because I'm a good friend of him and we've been through the highs and not-so-highs together for so many years," he said. "The same as me, he's got one more year [on his current deal], so we will see."[2][3][4]

Highlighting Salah's enduring value despite a recent dip in form—marked by just two goals in his last 13 appearances—Van Dijk praised his leadership and all-around contributions. "Mo is still so important for us. Last week he had an assist again and broke another record and he is still the leader... His presence benefits the team," the Dutch defender noted. Salah starred against Brighton, scoring and assisting, underscoring his impact beyond goals.[2][3]

On his own potential Anfield exit, Van Dijk remained measured, focusing on the present: "The full focus is on trying to make this season a success first and we will see how then the season ends."[3] He also issued a contract wish for defender Ibrahima Konate, signaling stability hopes in the backline.[1]

Van Dijk further commended young left-back Milos Kerkez, who joined from Bournemouth for £40 million last summer and has shown "big progress" after early struggles. "You definitely see an improvement... With the help of Robbo and the rest of the team," he said, crediting Kerkez's standout display against Brighton.[3]

As Liverpool push for silverware under Arne Slot, Van Dijk's comments reaffirm team unity amid transfer rumors, with Salah's future a key subplot.[2][4]

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