Liverpool have taken a major step in their negotiations by presenting an official contract offer to one of their star players, potentially Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, or Trent Alexander-Arnold, in what is being described as a significant development.

Liverpool has reportedly made a contract offer to Virgil van Dijk as negotiations continue, according to The Athletic’s David Ornstein. The Premier League leaders are aiming to resolve the uncertainty surrounding the defender’s future by offering him a new deal.

Van Dijk, 33, is one of three Liverpool players whose contracts are set to expire in June 2025, alongside Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold, with both of their futures still unclear. The report suggests that Liverpool’s initial offer did not meet Van Dijk’s expectations, and no agreement has been reached regarding the value or length of the potential contract.

Talks have been ongoing for some time, with discussions also continuing between the club and Alexander-Arnold. It is still uncertain how these negotiations will unfold, especially with interest from Real Madrid.

Ornstein also noted that Salah’s claim of not having received a contract offer remains accurate as of Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Manchester City on Sunday, though it’s expected that this will change soon.

Van Dijk addressed his future in October, stating, “Obviously discussions are ongoing, but I don’t know, we will see what happens in the future. My full focus is on Liverpool, wanting to win games that are ahead of me and nothing else. What the future will bring, I have no idea at the moment. I can only tell you that discussions have been started up and we will see.”

Since signing for Liverpool in 2018 for a reported £75m, Van Dijk has proven his worth, making 288 appearances for the club. He has won every major trophy with Liverpool, including the 2020 Premier League title, and will be aiming to add a second Premier League crown to his collection.

Liverpool is currently top of the league, with Arsenal and Chelsea trailing by nine points, and reigning champions Manchester City 11 points behind.

Liverpool could still make a significant signing in January, even if star player Virgil van Dijk signs a new contract. Arne Slot’s side has had an impressive start to the season, leading the Premier League by eight points and maintaining a perfect record in the UEFA Champions League with 15 points.

However, despite the team’s strong form, fans are concerned about the futures of key players Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, all of whom are set to leave Anfield for free in the summer when their contracts expire. Negotiations with the players have yet to make significant progress.

As the January transfer window approaches, reports suggest Liverpool could be targeting a new signing. According to The Echo, Spanish outlet Estadio Deportivo has reported that the club is monitoring Sevilla defender Loïc Badé, amid speculation that Van Dijk might extend his stay. Badé, who has a £50 million release clause, could be available for transfer, as Sevilla are reportedly open to offers for him and forward Dodi Lukebakio due to financial pressures.

Both Badé and Lukebakio could leave Sevilla in January, with the club seeking to generate profit. The links to Badé are particularly strong with Van Dijk’s future still uncertain.