Ronald Koeman reveals what Virgil van Dijk has told him about leaving Liverpool while on Netherlands duty
Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman has responded to a question about Virgil van Dijk's future as the defender continues to be linked with a move away from Liverpool.
With just over three months left on his contract at Anfield, Van Dijk has been linked with numerous clubs of late, including Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal.
In fact, a report from Spanish outlet Fichajes claims the 33-year-old has 'made the decision not to renew his contract with Liverpool' and has 'chosen to embark on a new challenge' amid interest from Bayern Munich.
Van Dijk has received a 'very attractive offer' from Bayern, according to the report, which claims the Bundesliga club have presented him with a 'highly lucrative contract'.
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In the past, Van Dijk has spoken about his desire to keep playing at the top level – which suggests a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League this summer is out of the question.
And in a recent press conference, Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman relayed that stance.
Speaking to the media ahead of their Nations League quarter-final clash against Spain on Thursday, Koeman responded to a question about Van Dijk's future from Dutch reporter Noa Vahle.
According to the publication Mee Met Oranje, Vahle said: "Van Dijk is 33 years old and very experienced. So I don't know if you advise him in that? His contract with Liverpool expires and you are impressed with how he is playing under Arne Slot. I assume you want him to re-sign... meaning Virgil plays for Liverpool until next year's World Cup?"
Koeman proceeded to give an insight into Van Dijk's thought process, confirming that the Dutch defender wants to continue playing at the highest level amid interest from Saudi Arabia.
"Whether he signs with Liverpool or another big club, that's all good for me," Koeman replied. "We'll see what happens. And what I understand from Virgil is that he is still looking for the level he is at now."
After Liverpool's Champions League exit to Paris Saint-Germain last week, Van Dijk admitted he has "no idea" what the future holds.
Arne Slot would later stress his desire to have the Dutchman on board for next season.
"The only thing I know is that I want Virgil to be here next season," Slot said in his pre-match press conference ahead of the Carabao Cup final. "All the rest, these talks about contracts, that is not what I do here."
Thoughts on Van Dijk's future? Let us know in the comments.
Topics: Virgil Van Dijk, Ronald Koeman, Netherlands, Liverpool
Jack Kenmare