Liverpool have signed £60m Van Dijk SUCCESSOR | OneFootball

Liverpool celebrated the Premier League title last season - with Virgil van Dijk leading the way as captain.

And the club could also hail a new contract for their skipper - tying him to Anfield until 2027. Van Dijk, 34, is still setting the standards in the heart of Arne Slot’s backline - recently being named to The Best FIFA Men’s 11 for 2025.

But given his age - the £75m defender won’t go on forever - and it would be a surprise if he agrees another extension beyond 2027.

And that means Liverpool will soon have to identify a new defender to take over from the Dutchman in the long term.

Liverpool will need to name a new captain

Hopefully that will be Marc Guehi - although Liverpool seem to be keen on Alessandro Bastoni and Nico Schlotterbeck too.

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When Van Dijk departs there will ALSO be a vacancy as club captain.

He took over duties when Jordan Henderson left the club in 2023 - expertly guiding the Reds to the title last season. The Anfield club currently possess a player in their ranks who is primed to take over from Van Dijk when he leaves.

That’s according to a report in the Athletic - which claims Dominik Szoboszlai is the ideal candidate to become Liverpool captain in the future.

Szoboszlai's AURA sets him apart

“Already the Hungary national-team skipper, he looks like a Liverpool captain in waiting, largely because of his on-field presence, versatility and availability,” the report reads.

“Szoboszlai has an aura that sets him apart and mixes well with different characters within the group: he is one of the few players who can be considered a close friend of Salah, for example.

“Although he’s not as eloquent or public-facing as Van Dijk, he is able to handle pressure and step up when required.”

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Szoboszlai under contract until 2028

Szoboszlai, 25, cost Liverpool £60m when he joined from RB Leipzig back in 2023. Last season he was among the team’s best performers as they clinched the title - and has taken his game to new heights this term.

Currently injured, Liverpool need Szoboszlai back fit as soon as possible. He is contracted until 2028 with talks between Richard Hughes and the Hungarian’s representative reportedly scheduled over a new deal.

A new contract will ensure he can lead Liverpool’s midfield for the long term - likely in possession of the captain’s armband from 2027 onwards.