Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has dismissed speculation that Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future influenced the right-back’s performance against Manchester United on Sunday.
Alexander-Arnold struggled during the 2-2 draw, losing the ball in the run-up to United’s first goal and failing to make a significant impact before being replaced in the 86th minute by Conor Bradley.
In the days leading up to the match, reports emerged that Liverpool had rejected an approach from Real Madrid, who were interested in signing the England international during the January transfer window.
This increased speculation over the defender’s future, especially as his contract is set to expire in the summer.
Despite the rumours, van Dijk insisted the 25-year-old’s performance was not influenced by off-field distractions.
Asked if the transfer speculation had affected Alexander-Arnold, van Dijk said: “No. I’m fine with that.
Mohamed Salah has posted this photo of himself, Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold…
What does it mean? 👀 #BBCFoccer pic.twitter.com/OZge8aSgkI
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) January 6, 2025
“Trent has his own people around him, his family, and we are there too.
“He wants to act in the best way possible like we all do. That is the main focus.”
The speculation surrounding Alexander-Arnold is part of a wider narrative at Liverpool, with Van Dijk and Mohamed Salah also approaching the final months of their contracts.
The three will be able to negotiate with foreign clubs starting this month.
Van Dijk previously stated in October that talks for a contract extension had begun, but after the United game he revealed there was no news regarding his situation.
Meanwhile, Salah recently admitted that negotiations on a new deal are far from moving forward. “We are very far from any progress,” Salah said earlier this month.
Despite ongoing contract dilemmas and transfer rumours, Salah posted a photo on social media after Sunday’s match, showing himself alongside Alexander-Arnold and Van Dijk.
