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Van Dijk is one of three key players - along with Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold - who is out of contract at the end of the season.

While the Liverpool skipper revealed earlier this week there had been progress in talks over a new deal, the clock is now ticking on the 33-year-old negotiating a fresh agreement before he becomes a free agent.

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And former Holland defender Jaap Stam believes his compatriot remains arguably the best centre-back in the world and that the Reds hierarchy need to successfully resolve negotiations over extending Van Dijk's Anfield career.



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"He’s been fantastic for Liverpool," said Stam.

Liverpool should be doing everything possible to keep him.

"He’s been so important for the club and has earned the respect of everyone.

Under a new manager, he can still be successful, win more trophies, and continue building on what he’s already accomplished.

"I see him staying at Liverpool, to be honest.

It would be a real shock if they let him go."

Since being appointed Liverpool captain by former boss Jurgen Klopp almost two years ago, Van Dijk scored the winner in the League Cup final last season and is closing on lifting the Premier League title.

Under new boss and fellow Dutchman Arne Slot, the defender has been an integral part of the Reds opening up an 11-point lead at the summit with seven games remaining.

And Stam, speaking exclusively with FreeBets, said: "I think everyone in Holland would be thrilled if Liverpool wins the title.

"Maybe it’s a bit different for us as former (Manchester) United players, but regardless, there’s a lot of pride in seeing Arne Slot doing well as a manager and especially seeing Virgil achieving so much.

"He’s been such a massive figure, not just for Liverpool, but for Dutch football as a whole.

"His journey, his growth, and his success have been incredible to watch.

He’s built his career step-by-step and has earned everything along the way.

"For Dutch people, there’s a lot of pride in seeing him succeed.

And with other Dutch players in the Liverpool squad, it’s something everyone back home is keeping an eye on.

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"We can only be proud of what he’s accomplished and continues to accomplish."


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