Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk inches closer to the 2025 summer exit as the time runs out on his contract. The Dutch captain’s current uncertainty edges him closer to the move to Saudi Arabia, the most likely destination for him.

The 33-year-old has played a pivotal role for the Reds since joining them from Southampton in January 2018. Van Dijk enjoyed great success and won many major trophies under legendary manager Jurgen Klopp, eventually earning the captaincy role.

The 33-year-old suffered an ugly Anterior cruciate ligament injury in the 2020-21 season through a heinous challenge from Jordan Pickford. Van Dijk required time to return to his former best form which he showed early in his impactful Liverpool career.

The Dutchman’s incredible performances earned him the Ballon d’Or runner-up position in 2019 behind arguably the greatest football in Lionel Messi. Van Dijk’s critics scrutinised the Dutchman during the 2022-23 season for failing to rediscover his peak form since the injury.

However, Van Dijk earned the Liverpool armband in the 2023-24 season and dominated in defence proving that class is permanent. The 33-year-old has continued as a key performer under new head coach Arne Slot despite the uncertainties surrounding his future.

According to Fichajes, Saudi Pro League clubs want Van Dijk in the summer of 2025 as a free agent. However, Van Dijk has maintained that he wants to stay at the club, believing he has two strong years left.

Liverpool are the only club in the Premier League who have not conceded a single goal this season so far. They won their first three Premier League gains while maintaining three clean sheets with Van Dijk playing a crucial role.

More Liverpool News:

• Liverpool’s £150k per week icon set to make shock exit next summer
• Liverpool to extend £220k per week star’s contract until 2027
• Liverpool set for €60m transfer battle to secure Van Dijk’s successor in January

Liverpool have a policy that stops them from giving lucrative contracts to ageing players to avoid unwanted financial risks. However, fans and his peers adore Van Dijk as he consistently performs and stands out from any regular ageing player.

Liverpool could provide an extension to the Dutchman on £220,000 per week while signing a competitive defender who can succeed him eventually. The Reds need their core players to stay and help with the new project under Slot.