Liverpool boss Arne Slot has hailed the significance of securing new contracts for Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah, and says keeping the current squad intact — including right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold — would already make this a “big summer” for the club.
Slot confirmed that while deals for Van Dijk and Salah have been wrapped up, Alexander-Arnold’s future remains unresolved with his contract expiring this summer. The 26-year-old, long considered one of the Premier League’s finest full-backs, has attracted strong interest from Real Madrid.
“It’s already a big summer now,” Slot said in his pre-match press conference. “By holding on to two, it’s already a big summer — and let’s see what the rest of it will bring.”
Though Slot refused to comment on contractual details, he praised Alexander-Arnold’s attitude and commitment as the defender returns from an ankle injury that sidelined him for over five weeks.
“Trent has worked so hard to be back. Every time he trains or plays, he shows his quality,” said the Dutchman. “Let’s see what the future brings.”
Slot, who succeeded Jurgen Klopp last summer, is on the brink of delivering Liverpool’s 20th top-flight title in his debut season. The Reds sit 13 points clear at the top of the Premier League, and could clinch the title as early as Sunday if they defeat Leicester City and Arsenal fail to beat Ipswich.
The Dutch coach has made minimal changes to the squad this season, with Italian forward Federico Chiesa the only major addition. Slot stressed the importance of continuity and leadership, particularly praising Van Dijk’s influence.
“I haven’t worked with a player like him in terms of leadership,” said Slot. “His presence on and off the pitch, the way he trains, the way he supports the younger players — it’s invaluable.”
Van Dijk, who joined Liverpool from Southampton in 2018 for £75 million, has won every major trophy with the club. Now 33, his future had come under scrutiny, but Slot believes his fitness will determine his longevity at the top level.
“If he stays fit, I see no reason why he would regress,” he said. “The club clearly agrees — otherwise we wouldn’t have given him a new two-year contract.”
With Salah, Van Dijk, and Slot’s core squad still intact, Liverpool fans will be hoping Alexander-Arnold follows suit and commits his future to the club. If he does, Liverpool’s quiet summer may prove to be one of their most important.
