Oct 23
Transfers
Duncan McColl

Virgil van Dijk Reveals ‘Ongoing Contract Talks’ Over New Liverpool Deal

Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk has confirmed that talks regarding a new contract have started but admitted he’s uncertain whether he’ll still be at Anfield next season.

The future of several key players remains unclear, with Van Dijk, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Mohamed Salah all out of contract at the end of the current campaign.

At 33, Van Dijk acknowledged that negotiations are ongoing but didn’t offer a clear indication about his long-term plans with the club.

"I can say obviously discussions are ongoing, but I don't know, we will see what happens in the future," he stated.

"My very full focus is on Liverpool, wanting to win games that are ahead of me and nothing else. What the future will bring I have no idea at the moment. I can only tell you that discussions have been started up and we will see.

"I feel very good, physically, mentally and I am having fun. Discussions are ongoing with the right people and when it's time to make a decision or whatever, I think you guys [the media] will know it as well.

"But now full commitment and focus is on Liverpool and to be successful this season. So we will see.

"Similar concerns have been raised about Alexander-Arnold, following rumors of interest from Real Madrid. Addressing the speculation, coach Slot assured the media that such distractions won’t affect the players' performance.

"I think you underestimate our players. These players are used to being linked with all the top clubs on a daily basis, if they have contracts or not," he commented during Friday’s press conference.

"If you think they're disturbed by this interest then you don't do justice to how strong they are mentally. This is part of our job. This is part of this world we are living in. You just focus on what you have to do.

"Maybe if you're 17 or 18 years of age it could be difficult for you. But Trent has won the league, has won the Champions League; Virgil and Mo the same. I don't think that is a problem for them to perform and that's what we see at the moment because they're playing really well."

Feb 16
Transfers
Marcus Littlejohn

World Cup Winner Oihane Hernández Joins Orlando Pride in Major NWSL Move

world-cup-winner-oihane-hernandez-joins-orlando-pride-in-major-nwsl-move

The Orlando Pride have made a significant addition to their roster by acquiring Spanish defender Oihane Hernández from Real Madrid Femenino.

Hernández, a 2023 World Cup champion with Spain, has signed a two-year contract through the 2026 season, with a mutual option for 2027.

Haley Carter, the Pride's Vice President of Soccer Operations and Sporting Director, stated, "Oihane is a technically gifted defender who excels in both defensive organization and distribution from the back. She brings world-class experience and a championship mindset from her time with Spain ... ."

Hernández, 24, began her professional career with Athletic Club, making over 100 appearances before joining Real Madrid in 2023.

During her tenure with Real Madrid, she featured in 31 matches and provided two assists.

Expressing her excitement about the move to Orlando, Hernández said, "I'm excited to join the Orlando Pride ... ."

Her international experience, highlighted by her contributions to Spain's World Cup victory, is expected to bolster the Pride's defensive lineup in the upcoming NWSL season.