Virgil van Dijk has signed a new two-year contract with Liverpool, which will reportedly make him the highest-paid defender in European football, A2 CNN reports. The deal follows Mohamed Salah's renewal last week, giving the club security for the new season.
The Dutch captain's current contract at Anfield was due to expire this summer. However, following positive talks in recent weeks, the 33-year-old has agreed to extend his stay until 2027.
Speaking about the new contract, which comes seven and a half years after his transfer from Southampton, Van Dijk told the club's media: "I'm very happy, very proud. There are so many emotions running through me at this moment. It's a feeling of pride, a feeling of joy. It's just unbelievable. The path I've taken so far in my career, and the opportunity to continue that for another two years at this club, is extraordinary."
According to The Athletic, the new deal will earn Van Dijk a whopping €470,000 per week. These figures make him the highest-paid defender in European football, surpassing Real Madrid star David Alaba, who earns €420,000 per week.
However, Van Dijk lags behind Al-Hilal defender Kalidou Koulibaly, who is said to earn more than €640,000 a week. A large portion of these huge terms are guaranteed, while some team bonuses are also included as additional motivation.
Van Dijk added: "It's always been Liverpool. That was the idea. I've always had that in mind, that's always been the plan - always Liverpool. I've never had any doubt that this is the right place for me and my family. I'm a Liverpool fan."
Since his arrival, Van Dijk has made 314 appearances for Liverpool, scoring 27 goals and providing 13 assists. His latest goal came in a late winner against West Ham, which moved the club closer to the Premier League title. The latest victory took Arne Slott's side 13 points clear of Arsenal with just six games remaining.
If Liverpool secure the title, they will equal Manchester United's record of 20 league titles in England. (A2 Televizion)
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