The player at the center of these upcoming discussions is Dominik Szoboszlai, the dynamic 25-year-old Hungarian midfielder who has been a standout performer under Arne Slot this season. With his current contract running until the summer of 2028, Liverpool opened extension negotiations earlier in the campaign, viewing him as a key piece of the midfield puzzle and even a potential future captain due to his leadership qualities, work rate, creativity, and goal threat.
However, recent updates have injected some uncertainty and urgency:
- In early February 2026 interviews (around February 1-3), Szoboszlai provided a candid but non-committal update, stating there’s been “nothing yet” in terms of progress on a new deal. He emphasized his desire to stay at Anfield—“I would love to extend my stay”—but admitted the situation is currently “not in my hands,” suggesting talks have stalled or remain at an early, inconclusive stage.
- Sources close to the club and reliable outlets (including ESPN and The Athletic) indicate Liverpool are eager to reward his impressive form and secure his long-term future amid interest from elite European sides like Real Madrid in the past.
- With the January transfer window now closed (following the high-profile pre-agreement for Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet to arrive in July), the focus has shifted inward to contract matters. Reports suggest further talks with Szoboszlai (or his representatives) are lined up imminently—potentially this week—to push for a breakthrough and avoid any prolonged uncertainty.
Szoboszlai has thrived since his £60 million move from RB Leipzig in 2023, contributing goals, assists, and energy in a revamped midfield alongside Alexis Mac Allister, Curtis Jones, and others. His versatility, long-range shooting, and pressing intensity make him integral to Slot’s system, and tying him down would send a strong signal of Liverpool’s intent to build around their core talents post the Klopp era.
This comes against the backdrop of other contract headlines:
- Salah and Van Dijk have seen their deals extended (or are in advanced stages) to 2027, removing immediate drama there.
- Ibrahima Konaté’s future remains uncertain (contract until 2026, no progress reported, with the Jacquet signing hinting at succession planning).
- Andy Robertson’s situation (expiring 2026) has seen stalled talks and a failed January exit attempt.
- Broader squad renewal efforts are ongoing, but Szoboszlai’s case stands out as one where proactive steps are needed soon to prevent speculation from growing.
Fans have reacted with a mix of optimism (he’s “one of ours” and thriving) and mild concern over his comments, with social media buzzing about the need for quick resolution. Liverpool’s hierarchy, led by sporting director Richard Hughes, is reportedly prioritizing these internal discussions now that external transfer business has wrapped for the winter.
If positive news emerges from this week’s talks, it could provide a major boost ahead of the run-in, solidifying midfield depth for the title challenge and beyond. For now, all eyes are on Anfield’s negotiation table—expect updates soon. YNWA.
