Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has been the subject of a contract plea from club legend John Barnes, who insists the Reds must secure the defender to fresh terms. Meanwhile, Harvey Elliott could be handed a second chance under new head coach Andoni Iraola as pre-season training commences next week.
Van Dijk Contract Message
John Barnes, a Liverpool icon, has urged the club to extend Virgil van Dijk's contract. The Reds captain signed a two-year deal in 2025, but Barnes believes retaining experienced players is crucial after the departures of Mohamed Salah, Ibrahima Konate, and Andy Robertson this summer.
"I'd like to see Virgil's contract being extended because for Andoni Iraola, he'll need his senior players," Barnes told Betfred. "Those that have been around the block and know the club... so I think it's important that we keep a hold of Virgil next season."
Barnes' plea comes amid speculation linking Van Dijk with a move away from Anfield. The Dutchman has been at Liverpool since January 2018 but was recently linked with a switch to Turkey, though senior figures at the club quickly dismissed those rumours.
Elliott's Fresh Chance
Harvey Elliott could be given a Liverpool lifeline this summer. With pre-season set to begin next week, Iraola was present at the AXA Training Centre on Tuesday alongside several senior players, including Elliott.
The 23-year-old, a regular under Jurgen Klopp, saw his opportunities dwindle after Arne Slot's appointment in 2024. He was loaned to Aston Villa but failed to secure a regular role. In his opening interview as head coach, Iraola indicated that players like Elliott would get a chance to prove themselves.
"We've analysed Liverpool a lot – possible weaknesses, the strengths," Iraola said. "I think we have a very good squad. I think there is still work to do, like normally in every club in this moment of the season. But right now, for me the thing is to value especially the players that we have right now in the squad."
"For me, and I will tell them, [they] are all new signings. For me, you are all new signings and I think we have a lot of quality in our squad, and [I'm] really looking forward to working with them."
With Liverpool needing reinforcements across the forward line, Elliott—who can operate on the right of midfield or in support of the strikers—could prove a valuable asset if the club decides to keep him this summer.
Pre-Season Underway
Iraola, 44, observed some of his players on Tuesday at the club's Kirkby training ground. The arrival of Victor Munoz from Osasuna has been Liverpool's only transfer so far, while Jeremy Jacquet, who signed in January, has officially joined the squad.
The ongoing World Cup has hampered transfer activity, with many sought-after players focused on the tournament. In the meantime, Iraola will look to keep his key players together as he gets to know them.
