Liverpool are expected to make contrasting decisions on whether to offer Alisson Becker and Virgil van Dijk new deals, according to reports.
Alisson and Van Dijk are Liverpool legends, though all good things must come to an end. The goalkeeper, 34, and centre-back, 35, are both out of contract next summer, and sources are strongly suggesting one will stay and the other will go.
Speaking about Alisson’s future in his latest press conference, Liverpool boss, Andoni Iraola, said: “I don’t know [if this will be Alisson’s last season], that is a question you have to ask him. I hope not, I hope he continues with us for more time.
“But, when you ask me about contracts and these situations, it is a matter for the players and the club.
“Yes we have continuous conversations with Julian [Ward] but I cannot tell you everything. We talk between us.”
But while Iraola may want his Brazilian stopper to stay, the decision will ultimately rest with the higher-ups at Anfield.
And according to Fabrizio Romano, there’s now a ‘serious possibility’ Alisson isn’t offered fresh terms, and thus leaves via free agency at season’s end.
‘Serious’ chances for Alisson to leave Liverpool in 2027
Romano explained on his YouTube channel: “Iraola was asked about the Allison situation in a press conference ahead of this weekend’s game and the question was ‘is this going to be the last season for Alisson at Liverpool?’
“Iraola said ‘I hope not, I hope he’s going to stay, he’s a crucial player for us, but obviously it’s on the club, it’s on the player, it’s not a question for me.’
“The answer guys, is that Liverpool are aware of the fact that Allison was considering a switch to Italy, a switch to Juventus in summer 2026 at the beginning May, June 2026.
“Then Liverpool decided to extend his contract for a further season and Alisson decided to stay and help the club in a moment of transition from Arne Slot to Iraola in a moment where they already lost Mo Salah and other important players, Andy Robertson then Curtis Jones.
“So he didn’t want to leave in a summer where Liverpool started this transition. So he respected the club decision and he wanted to stay and fight one more season for Liverpool.
“Then if you ask me what they asked Iraola about Alisson, about is there a chance this will be the last season, I think it’s a serious possibility.
“Then it’s not something 100 percent decided, but it’s a serious possibility because there is interest from several countries and Alisson could explore these opportunities.
“Then let’s see how the season will end. It’s still very early. Maybe Liverpool decide to tell Alisson, no, we absolutely want you to stay here and they offer a new contract.
“So let’s see what’s going to happen. But I also can tell you that Liverpool also very happy with [Giorgi] Mamardashvili.”
DON’T MISS: Rio Ngumoha reaches decision on joining Bayern Munich from Liverpool
Virgil van Dijk to stay beyond current campaign – insider
Van Dijk, meanwhile, is on course to receive an offer to extend his glittering stay on Merseyside.
That’s according to TEAMtalk’s transfer insider, Graeme Bailey, who detailed the latest on the Dutchman on the TEAMtalk podcast.
When asked if Van Dijk is in line to receive an offer to extend, Bailey replied: “Yeah, that is the talk at the moment. Obviously he’s out of contract in the summer, he’s going to be another year older as well.
“He signed a huge contract back in 2025. Everyone thought this might be his final farewell tour, but he’s actually had a very good season.
“It’s part of the reason why we’re seeing Jeremy Jacquet playing ever so well. You’ve got [Giovanni] Leoni there as well, the young Italian central defender.
READ NEXT: Liverpool captain Van Dijk accused of selfish act and leaving Reds team-mate to ‘fend for himself’
“From what I’m hearing, Andoni Iraola really wants to keep him (Van Dijk) around. Captain figure – it’s like having a coach on the pitch.
“He’s not missing any games, he’s playing really well. I’m told there’s every chance he gets another 12 months at least.
“It doesn’t stop them [from] bringing another centre-half in. But learning from Van Dijk, these youngsters… I’m told Jacquet is learning so much playing next to him.”
