Virgil van Dijk says he expects a “big summer” for Liverpool in the transfer market as he reportedly closes in on a deal that will secure his future at Anfield.<\/p>\n

Arne Slot’s men are on the brink of a record-equalling 20th English league title after Sunday’s 2-1 victory at home to West Ham, in which Van Dijk scored the winner.<\/p>\n

They are 13 points ahead of second-placed Arsenal with just six games to go and could wrap up the title next weekend if results go their way.<\/p>\n

Van Dijk’s own future is likely to be secured later this week, with the announcement of a two-year contract to match Mohamed Salah’s new deal.<\/p>\n

Forward Federico Chiesa was the only outfield signing in last year’s post-season transfer window but he has rarely featured and Liverpool manager Arne Slot will be eager to strengthen.<\/p>\n

“I think Liverpool should be able to challenge for titles in the upcoming years,” said Van Dijk, who captained the team for the 100th time in the league against West Ham.<\/p>\n

“Whatever happens in terms of players going out, players coming in, I think it should be a big summer. I think they’re planning to make it a big summer, so we all have to trust the board to do the right job.<\/p>\n

“I think we 100 percent can improve. I think we shouldn’t forget the quality that the Premier League possesses, especially this season. It’s incredible how everyone can beat everyone.”<\/p>\n

The Dutch international, 33, said Liverpool would also benefit from a pre-season, with no major international competition taking place this year.<\/p>\n

“This year, there is a training camp and there is time for the team to work on what the manager wants and I think that will then improve the team,” he said.<\/p>\n

“I think a proper pre-season would definitely help the club in order to be even more consistent than we already have been.”<\/p>\n

Van Dijk is set to become only the second Liverpool captain to lift the Premier League trophy and he is looking to add to that.<\/p>\n

“Being successful with Liverpool, the culture of the club, everything that embodies Liverpool — that is just part of me,” he said.<\/p>\n

“I love the club, that’s pretty obvious. I think you can see that in the way I speak about the club, the way I work for the club in terms of what I do on the pitch on and off the pitch, and that will always be the same.”<\/p>\n

jw\/jc<\/p>\n