Liverpool face important decisions over the futures of Alisson Becker and Virgil van Dijk, with both players approaching the end of their contracts in summer 2027. Neither departure has been confirmed. Their situations nevertheless present a significant challenge as the club considers how to retain experience while planning the next stage of its defensive development.
Alisson’s future remains open despite speculation about a possible summer exit. Liverpool extended the Brazilian goalkeeper’s contract by 12 months earlier this year, keeping him at Anfield after interest from Juventus. Manager Andoni Iraola has since expressed his hope that Alisson will stay beyond the current campaign, while acknowledging that any agreement is a matter for the player and the club.
“I don’t know if this will be Alisson’s last season,” Iraola said ahead of Liverpool’s trip to Crystal Palace. “That is a question you have to ask him. I hope not. I hope he continues with us for more time.” He also confirmed that discussions take place with sporting director Julian Ward, without disclosing their details. Those comments leave room for either an extension or a departure; they do not establish that Liverpool have decided against renewal.
Van Dijk’s position also requires a decision. His contract expires in 2027, not 2025, and there is no substantiated indication that his willingness to stay depends on Liverpool signing a replacement who meets his personal requirements. The more immediate question is how the club assesses his continuing contribution alongside its longer-term defensive plans.
The goalkeeper position is attracting transfer speculation, with Liverpool reportedly considering Brighton’s Bart Verbruggen amid uncertainty over Alisson. That interest remains a report rather than confirmation of a bid or an agreed succession plan. It also does not establish that Caoimhín Kelleher will return from Brentford or that Liverpool intend to recruit a short-term replacement.
For now, Liverpool’s summer planning is defined by uncertainty, not settled exits. Alisson and Van Dijk remain senior figures whose experience would be difficult to replace, but their contract situations require careful consideration. The decisions ahead concern the balance between continuity and renewal—not a confirmed farewell for either player.
