Liverpool fans know there’s a small chance they could win the Premier League title this Easter weekend.

The Reds have put themselves within two wins of securing the championship, but if Arsenal lose and they beat Leicester this weekend, the title will be theirs.

In the meantime, Virgil van Dijk has already ensured there will be a celebratory mood around Merseyside after penning a new contract on Thursday.

Van Dijk had been expected to follow Mohamed Salah and stay at Liverpool after a breakthrough in talks two weeks ago.

Virgil van Dijk is already ‘planning to stay’ at Liverpool longer than 2027	Virgil van Dijk could emulate ex-Chelsea defender as Liverpool captain’s post-2027 plans outlined	and#8216;It was always Liverpooland#8217; and#8211; Virgil van Dijk officially ends transfer speculation with new deal

And on Thursday the news every Liverpool supporter had been waiting for was finally confirmed.

With the ink not yet dry on his new deal, the Dutchman is already reportedly making a plan beyond 2027.

Photo by Nikki Dyer – LFC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images

Van Dijk staying is absolutely enormous news for Liverpool.

The 33-year-old has become the figurehead of the club and really grown into his role as captain.

And while the two year deal will offer some relief to those worried Van Dijk was set to leave, The Times report that the No.4 is plotting to elongate his career at Liverpool even further.

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They report that Van Dijk ‘does not intend to end his association’ with the club in 2027, when he’ll be turning 36.

The centre-back has reportedly been visiting the Liverpool training ground on his days off this season, making use of the ice baths and cryotherapy chamber.

READ MORE: When Trent Alexander-Arnold could make Liverpool comeback after return to training

This committment to his physical well-being is said to have led to a belief that Van Dijk can emulate Thiago Silva, who continued playing at the top level with Chelsea until 39.

According to The Daily Mail, Virgil is planning to lead the Netherlands into the World Cup next summer and reportedly ‘sees no reason’ he cannot continue for three or four more years.

Since the news broke of a breakthrough in talks with Van Dijk, it had felt like a matter of when and not if the big defender would stay.

Now that he has finally ended speculation beyond all doubt, Virgil has admitted that it was ‘always Liverpool’.

He never wanted to be anywhere else.

“It was always Liverpool.

I’m one of Liverpool.

Someone called me the other day an adopted Scouser – I’m really proud to hear these things, it gives me a great feeling.”

While Thursday and the coming weeks are all about enjoying Van Dijk’s news, the skipper already has his eyes on turning 2027 into 2029 and perhaps even beyond.
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