Liverpool star drops contract bombshell 84 hours before Newcastle United final

Eddie Howe would have been watching keenly on Tuesday when the Reds crashed out of the Champions League. Paris Saint-Germain - unbeaten in Ligue 1 this season - provided the blueprint for the Magpies ahead of the Carabao Cup final.

Liverpool looked lethargic at Anfield - just like they did in Paris a week earlier. PSG caused Arne Slot’s men problems throughout in a trusted 4-3-3 system, albeit with more attacking firepower than Newcastle.

Ousmane Dembele, however, gave Alexander Isak homework to consider for the No.9 position. The Magpies remain underdogs but a wounded Liverpool - as well as PSG’s game plan - has raised optimism levels around Tyneside.

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Surprisingly, in the post-match fall-out, Van Dijk admitting he is unaware of his contract situation, although he says it’s no secret talks have taken place behind the scenes. The Dutchman and Mohamed Salah - both out of contract in June - were visibly emotional at the full-time whistle.

Speculation regarding Van Dijk, Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future has plagued Liverpool’s season. Speaking after the PSG defeat, the skipper conceded he may have played his last Champions League game as a Red - but sent out a battle cry to Newcastle ahead of this weekend.

“I have no idea at the moment,” Van Dijk said. “Genuinely, I still have no idea. It is not on hold - nothing on hold. There are 10 games to go and that is my full focus.

“If there is news, you guys will know it. I don’t even know myself. Everyone knows there are some conversations behind the scenes but that is about it. At the moment, I don’t even know what will happen next year. If anyone says they do know, they are lying to your face.

“There are two big prizes we can still get. We are going to give it everything. Be ready for a good one (on Sunday). If we bring this intensity to Wembley with our fans, then I am positive. I am always positive. But I am really looking forward to being back out there.”

Arne Slot evokes further Liverpool uncertainty - advantage Newcastle United?

Slot was also angered by being asked about the trio’s contract situation immediately after Liverpool’s defeat. The 46-year-old felt hard done by as the Reds topped the group stage before drawing PSG in the round of 16.

“It is creative to come up with the contract situation,” Slot said. “That is the last thing I am thinking of. Liverpool showed themselves and, hopefully, they have more luck next year.

“I have never seen them as intense and aggressive as today. If you put so much effort in and don’t get rewarded, it is sometimes difficult.

“It feels a bit unfair to go out in this round already. If you are top then face a tough team like PSG, but that is a nice part of football. Everyone around the world enjoys watching this game.”

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