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Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman touched briefly on Virgil van Dijk and his contract stalemate at Liverpool this season ahead of the Netherlands’ clash against Spain this international break.

The Dutch defender, whose current deal expires this summer, has been engaged in prolonged negotiations with the Anfield hierarchy, but a definitive resolution has yet to be reached despite his pivotal role in Arne Slot’s team.

At 33, the defender remains at the peak of his powers, with his commanding performances helping Liverpool establish a commanding 15-point lead in the Premier League.

But speaking after the defeat to Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup final, he seemed to suggest that he wants to remain at Anfield – asserting that he loves the club:

“Before the end of the season, there’s going to be news, “the Dutchman said.

“As long as I’m full committed and have my full focus on the task ahead, and I love the club, that’s the main thing?

That’s who I am”.

Now his national team manager has provided a promising boost.

Speaking in his pre-Spain press conference ahead of the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals, Koeman revealed that Van Dijk is looking to play at the same level he is now with Liverpool – and is not looking for a path to end his career just yet:

“Whether he signs with Liverpool or another big club, that’s all good for me.

“We’ll see what happens, and what I understand from Virgil is that he is still looking for the level he is at now.”

Although Koeman did not specially suggest he would sign for Liverpool, the fact that the 33-year-old wants to continue at his current level is telling.

There would be minimal options around Europe that would pay his wages while also keeping a level that Koeman is referring to.

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