Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has offered the clearest signal yet that he is poised to sign a new contract, while hinting at a significant transfer window ahead for the Reds this summer. Following his match-winning goal against West Ham United, Van Dijk expressed confidence in the club’s future ambitions under Arne Slot, stressing that Liverpool are preparing for a “big summer” of recruitment to strengthen their title credentials.

Virgil van Dijk has strongly suggested that a new contract at Liverpool is imminent, whilst revealing the club’s ambitious plans for the upcoming summer transfer window.

The Liverpool skipper, who has been a commanding figure at Anfield since joining from Southampton in January 2018, is reportedly on the brink of agreeing a two-year extension, following the announcement of Mohamed Salah’s new deal last Friday. The fresh terms would see Van Dijk remain at Liverpool until 2027 and position him among the club’s highest earners.

The Dutch defender was once again the decisive figure on Sunday, as his late header secured a 2-1 victory over West Ham United at Anfield, pushing Liverpool 13 points clear of Arsenal at the top of the Premier League table. The win means the Reds require only six points from their final 18 to secure their second league title in five years and their 20th overall. There is even the possibility that they could seal the championship as early as Sunday should results elsewhere go in their favour.

Speaking after the match, Van Dijk expressed optimism about Liverpool’s long-term prospects and hinted that preparations for a busy summer transfer window are already well underway.

"I think Liverpool should be able to challenge for titles in the coming years," Van Dijk said. "Whatever happens in terms of players leaving or arriving, I believe it will be a big summer. The club is planning for that, and as fans connected to Liverpool, we must trust the board to make the right decisions. There’s always room for improvement."

Reflecting on the competitiveness of the Premier League this season, Van Dijk added:

"This league is incredibly tough — anyone can beat anyone, as we’ve seen in recent results. Personally, I didn’t have a proper pre-season last year, so this summer’s training camp will be a crucial period for the manager and the players to align. That time together will undoubtedly strengthen the team."

Van Dijk’s post-match celebrations, including a heartfelt badge kiss in front of the Kop, only fuelled the belief that his commitment to Liverpool remains unwavering. He went on to reaffirm his affection for the club, which he joined in a then-world-record £75 million deal for a defender.

"I joined Liverpool for many reasons, including the passion of the Scousers and the global fanbase," he explained. "Success with this club is special. Liverpool is a part of me. Every time I wear the shirt, I aim to be the best version of myself on and off the pitch."

The Netherlands international also underlined the club’s collective desire to clinch the title, urging his team-mates to remain focused on the remaining matches.

Asked about the status of his new contract in the wake of Salah’s extension, Van Dijk remained diplomatic but suggested news may arrive soon.

"Let’s see how the week unfolds," he said. "Right now, the focus is on the Hillsborough anniversary and the upcoming match against Leicester. But I did mention last week there had been progress, so we’ll see."

Reflecting on the victory over West Ham, Van Dijk acknowledged the importance of the three points in their title pursuit, especially following Arsenal’s dropped points earlier in the weekend.

"At this stage of the season, it’s all about securing the three points and moving a step closer to achieving our dreams," he said. "Everyone worked their socks off today, and the fans played a massive part in pushing us over the line."

Looking ahead, Van Dijk is convinced Liverpool are heading in the right direction — both in the short and long term — and that the club’s ambitions remain as high as ever.