On Thursday, Liverpool confirmed that Van Dijk had signed a new two-year deal, securing his services until the summer of 2027. The announcement follows last week's news that Salah has also committed his future to the club with a contract renewal, ending months of speculation regarding both players' long-term plans.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Slot emphasized the significance of retaining key senior players as a statement of intent from the club.
"It clearly illustrates our desire to retain our top talent—players who have consistently delivered at the highest level over several seasons," Slot said. "Securing their contracts, especially as they approached free agency, is a testament to the remarkable ambitions this club has moving forward."
Van Dijk, who joined Liverpool in January 2018, has been instrumental in the club's recent success, amassing over 300 appearances and helping the team to seven major honours, including the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League.
The 33-year-old has been a mainstay in Slot's starting lineup throughout the current season, contributing significantly to Liverpool's push for a record-equalling 20th league title.
"His influence is difficult to quantify," Slot continued. "He is widely acknowledged for his defensive capabilities, but his composure and technical ability in possession are equally vital to our style of play. Beyond that, his leadership both on the pitch and around the training ground is exceptional. I have not previously worked with a player who brings such consistent energy and authority to the squad."
While the extensions for Van Dijk and Salah represent major milestones for Liverpool's squad continuity, uncertainty remains surrounding the future of Trent Alexander-Arnold. According to sources close to ESPN, Real Madrid are "very confident" in their pursuit of the England international, whose current contract is due to expire at the end of the season.
Nevertheless, the decisions by Van Dijk and Salah to remain at Anfield suggest that Liverpool remains a highly attractive destination for elite players, as the club prepares for a new era under Slot's leadership.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that forward Kai Havertz could make a surprise return from injury before the end of the season, raising hopes that the German international may be available for their UEFA Champions League push.
Arsenal have reportedly cooled their pursuit of Wolverhampton Wanderers' forward Matheus Cunha due to concerns over his on-pitch behaviour, according to recent reports.
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has confirmed that Trent Alexander-Arnold could return to action this weekend in the Premier League fixture against Leicester City, following a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to an ankle injury.
Under UEFA's revised structure for the 2024/25 Champions League, both the Premier League and LaLiga have secured a fifth qualification spot, owing to their clubs' collective performance in European competitions this season.
