Liverpool have officially opened contract negotiations with Dominik Szoboszlai, aiming to tie the Hungarian midfielder down to a long-term extension that reflects his meteoric rise under Arne Slot.
Despite his current deal running until June 2028, the club’s hierarchy is moving proactively to reward the 25-year-old for a standout 2025 campaign that has seen him labeled as the "natural successor" to Virgil van Dijk’s captaincy.
The Details of the Deal
Reports from The Athletic and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano indicate that while talks are in the "preliminary but advancing" stages, there is a clear intent from both parties to reach an agreement.
Salary Hike: Szoboszlai currently earns approximately £120,000-a-week. The new proposal is expected to bring him into the club’s top tier of earners, alongside the likes of Alexis Mac Allister and Alisson Becker.
The "Leadership" Clause: Internal sources suggest the contract includes incentives tied to his growing role in the "senior leadership group." With Van Dijk and Andy Robertson entering the final stages of their current deals, Szoboszlai is being groomed as the central pillar for Liverpool's next era.
Duration: The new deal would likely extend his stay at Anfield until 2030 or 2031.
Why Now? The "Szobo" Impact
Liverpool’s decision to move now—nearly three years before his contract expires—is a strategic masterstroke designed to ward off brewing interest from Real Madrid and Manchester City.
Versatility: This season, Szoboszlai has been Liverpool’s "Swiss Army Knife," operating as a #10, a box-to-box #8, and even filling in at right-back during an injury crisis.
The "Iron Man" Stats: He has played more minutes than any other Liverpool outfielder in 2025, a testament to his elite physical conditioning and tactical indispensability to Arne Slot’s system.
End Product: With 5 goals and 5 assists already this term, his attacking output has finally matched his defensive work rate, making him one of the most complete midfielders in Europe.
The Injury Scare
The news of contract talks comes at a bittersweet moment for the player. Szoboszlai was forced off with an ankle injury during the 83rd minute of Liverpool’s recent win over Brighton.
While Arne Slot admitted the injury "didn't look great," the club remains optimistic that it is a short-term setback. If anything, his brief absence has only highlighted how much the team struggles to maintain its high-pressing intensity without him on the pitch.
The Bigger Picture: A Midfield Overhaul
Szoboszlai isn't the only one headed for the boardroom. Liverpool are also reportedly in early discussions with Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister as they look to secure the core of their midfield for the next half-decade.
The Verdict: By securing Szoboszlai, Liverpool aren't just protecting an asset; they are confirming the identity of their future leader.