Virgil van Dijk's future still in doubt as Liverpool's opening contract offer 'falls short of his expectations'

The Dutch defender is one of three pivotal Liverpool players whose current contracts expire at the end of the season, along with Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold. While Salah, 32, recently confirmed that he has yet to receive a formal proposal to extend his stay at Anfield, talks with Alexander-Arnold are said to be progressing, though his circumstances differ due to his younger age (26) and status as a homegrown talent.

According to The Athletic, Liverpool have tabled an opening contract offer to Van Dijk, but it "fell short of his expectations". Negotiations over the terms, including both financial compensation and contract length, have yet to produce a breakthrough, but talks are ongoing.

Under head coach Arne Slot, Liverpool have started the season strongly, with Van Dijk playing a critical role in the team’s solid defensive displays. The Reds boast of having the meanest defence in the Premier League, having shipped just eight goals in 13 games.

Van Dijk will be back in action on Wednesday when Liverpool come against Newcastle at St James' Park, in a game that will serve as another platform for the defender to remind the club’s hierarchy of his indispensable role and enduring quality. The Reds are currently nine points clear at the top of the Premier League, having beaten reigning champions Manchester City 2-0 at Anfield last time out.