Virgil van Dijk has expressed his desire for Andy Robertson to remain at Liverpool as negotiations with Tottenham Hotspur continue over a potential January transfer. The Scotland captain, whose contract expires in the summer, has been in talks over a new deal, but Spurs' unexpected approach has complicated matters.
Speaking after Liverpool's 3-2 defeat at Bournemouth, Van Dijk said: "Of course I speak to him. I speak to him every day, he's my vice-captain. Robbo is a very important member of our team and I want him to stay but whatever happens, let's see." The Dutch defender remains hopeful the left-back will remain at Anfield for the rest of the season.
Robertson, 30, has been a key figure since joining Liverpool in 2017 and is eager for regular first-team football ahead of Scotland's first World Cup appearance since 1998. Liverpool value his distinguished service, but no verdict has been reached on his future.
The defeat at Bournemouth, which ended a 13-match unbeaten run, was a blow to Liverpool's Champions League hopes. Van Dijk acknowledged fatigue played a role, particularly after a midweek win in Marseille. "We are having a difficult season in terms of ups and downs," he added.
Liverpool face Qarabag on Wednesday, and Van Dijk was non-committal when asked if he expected Robertson to be involved. The situation remains fluid as the January transfer window deadline approaches.
