Liverpool 'fall short' with opening contract offer to Virgil van Dijk

Liverpool have offered centre-back Virgil van Dijk a new contract, a report has revealed, but failed to meet the Dutchman's demands.

Van Dijk is one of three high-profile stars approaching the final six months of their contracts alongside Trent Alexander-Arnold and Mohamed Salah, the latter of whom has publicly revealed he has not yet been offered fresh terms.

That does not appear to be the case with Van Dijk, however, as The Athletic state Liverpool have made the Dutch defender an offer to continue his stay at Anfield.

The offer, "made some time ago", is said to have fallen short of Van Dijk's expectations when it comes to both salary and duration.

Crucially, talks remain on between Liverpool and Van Dijk's representatives in search of an agreement. The defender has repeatedly batted away questions about his future publicly while negotiations continue.

The Merseyside outfit are also expected to make a formal offer to Salah, who is believed to be happy to sign a one-year extension if it is offered.

Meanwhile, Liverpool also remain in active dialogue with right-back Alexander-Arnold, who is being chased by Real Madrid, but the conclusion of this ongoing saga remains unclear.

Midfielder Alexis Mac Allister recently urged Liverpool to hash out agreements with Van Dijk, Salah and Alexander-Arnold, insisting the squad are keen to keep playing alongside the trio for years to come.

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