Virgil van Dijk responds to questions over Mohamed Salah’s Liverpool future

By The Independent | Published February 14, 2026

Virgil van Dijk has backed Mohamed Salah's long-term future at Liverpool, amid mounting speculation over a potential summer exit for the Egyptian star.

The Reds captain addressed the ongoing contract saga following Liverpool's latest training session, where reports intensified about the club's stance on Salah entering the final year of his deal in summer 2026. Salah, 33, signed a two-year extension in April 2025, tying him to Anfield until 2027, but sources indicate the club is now open to offers as they weigh financial realities and squad refreshment.^[1][3]

"Mo is our talisman, and I believe he'll stay and keep delivering," Van Dijk said firmly. "We've been through a lot together, and his commitment is clear on the pitch. These rumors are part of the game, but we're focused on winning trophies."^[1] His comments come after a public fallout between Salah and manager Arne Slot in late 2025, when Salah was benched and vented frustration post a 3-3 draw with Leeds. The pair have since reconciled, but tension lingers.^[1][3][4]

Saudi Pro League clubs, led by Al-Ittihad and Al-Nassr, are circling with bids potentially exceeding £100m—or as low as €30m according to some reports—eager to lure the record-breaking forward. Liverpool views a sale as a pragmatic move to fund reinforcements, including centre-back targets like Yan Diomande and Lloyd Kelly.^[1][3][4]

Despite public insistence Salah stays, insiders reveal private preparations for his departure, marking a crossroads for Anfield's greatest modern goalscorer with 243 goals in 394 appearances.^[1][2] Van Dijk's endorsement underscores squad unity, but as the 2026 window nears, Salah's legacy hangs in the balance.

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