Virgil van Dijk has emphasised the need for Liverpool to have an impactful summer transfer window if they are to sustain their challenge for major honours in the years ahead. The club captain, whose contract discussions remain ongoing, reaffirmed his deep connection to Liverpool and hinted at his intention to extend his stay. Van Dijk also expressed full confidence in the board’s future plans, while praising Mohamed Salah’s enduring excellence following the forward’s contract renewal.

Virgil van Dijk believes Liverpool require a significant summer of transfer activity if they are to maintain their challenge for silverware in the coming seasons.

The Reds find themselves just two victories away from securing the Premier League title, with the potential to be crowned champions as early as Sunday. However, captain Van Dijk has already set his sights firmly on the future.

The Dutchman has offered a strong indication that he intends to follow Mohamed Salah’s example by signing a new contract, stating it is “obvious” how deeply he loves the club, describing Liverpool as “part of me.”

Looking ahead, Van Dijk is confident that Liverpool’s recruitment efforts will be crucial, particularly following a quiet period in the market which saw only one addition to Arne Slot’s squad — the acquisition of Federico Chiesa last year. The club are also widely expected to lose Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose contract is nearing expiry, with Real Madrid reportedly leading the chase for his signature.

Van Dijk is optimistic, however, that the club’s hierarchy, including Director of Football Richard Hughes and owners Fenway Sports Group, are preparing for an active window.

He commented:

"I believe Liverpool should be in a position to challenge for titles in the years to come. Regardless of which players leave or arrive, I think it will be an important summer for the club. I believe the board are planning for it to be a big summer, and as a Liverpool supporter, I think we must place our trust in them to make the right decisions."

Although Van Dijk’s own contract is set to expire this summer, discussions have been ongoing for several months, and the defender recently confirmed progress has been made. Given his long-standing influence at Anfield, few expect him to depart.

Reflecting on his time at the club, the £75 million signing from Southampton outlined what Liverpool means to him:

"It’s the entire package, really. I joined Liverpool in 2017 for many reasons — from the passion of the Scousers to the global community of supporters who are connected to the club. Experiencing success with Liverpool, understanding the club’s culture — it all feels like a part of me now."

"That’s why I wear the shirt with so much pride and always strive to be the best version of myself, both as a footballer and as a representative of the club."

"We are just two wins — six points — away from achieving glory. I know what that will mean for the club and the impact it will have. Most of the players haven’t experienced that feeling yet, so if we manage to do it, it will be truly special. But the job is not yet finished."

Van Dijk also spoke about his admiration for Mohamed Salah, who last week signed a new two-year contract despite speculation linking him with a summer departure. The Egyptian forward has delivered another outstanding campaign, scoring 32 goals and providing 23 assists.

"It’s difficult to put into words just how consistent he has been," Van Dijk said. "His statistics speak for themselves, but it’s his relentless work ethic over the past eight years that truly stands out. I have no doubt he will continue performing at this level for years to come."

The defender also addressed his role in a recent incident during Liverpool’s win over West Ham, where a defensive mix-up led to an unfortunate own goal by Andy Robertson, although Van Dijk later redeemed himself by scoring the decisive winner.

"It’s one of those things that happen in football," he admitted. "A split-second situation that ended in misfortune. Thankfully, in the end, we weren’t punished for it, which was the most important thing."