Van Dijk’s current deal is due to expire at the end of the 2026/27 season, and Flashscore reports that there is currently no indication of Liverpool offering the 35-year-old a new contract.
The uncertainty surrounding his future has prompted reports in Spain linking him with Real Madrid. If he leaves Liverpool when his contract expires, the defender would be available as a free agent.
Van Dijk remains central to Liverpool
Despite his age, Van Dijk continues to be a regular presence in Liverpool’s team.
Flashscore’s analysis notes that he made 61 starts across competitions from the beginning of the 2025/26 campaign, more than any other Liverpool player. He also recorded 5,481 minutes during that period.
His defensive numbers underline his importance to the team. He registered 396 clearances and 272 headed clearances, while winning 243 of 323 aerial duels.
Van Dijk also won 299 of his 418 one-on-one duels, giving him a 71.53 per cent success rate in those situations. His passing figures were similarly strong, with 4,396 attempted passes and 3,926 completed, an accuracy rate of 89.31 per cent.
Real Madrid interest remains a report
Reports from Spain have suggested that Real Madrid could consider a short-term deal for Van Dijk should he become a free agent next summer.
Sports Mole, citing Mundo Deportivo, also reported that Real Madrid had emerged as a possible destination for the Liverpool defender, alongside reported interest from other clubs. However, there is no confirmed agreement between Van Dijk and Real Madrid at this stage.
Van Dijk has remained an important figure at Liverpool and continues to captain the side. In September, he described his excitement about another Champions League campaign with the club in official Liverpool programme notes.
Liverpool face a decision
Liverpool therefore face a potentially significant decision over the coming months: whether to extend the contract of their long-serving captain or prepare for his departure at the end of the season.
Van Dijk will turn 36 before the beginning of the 2027/28 campaign, but his recent availability and performances mean his potential departure would leave a significant gap in Liverpool’s defensive options.
For now, his future remains unresolved, while reported interest from Real Madrid adds another layer to the uncertainty surrounding the Liverpool captain’s next move.