The Truth About Liverpool’s Contract Situation | Julian Ward Special

Dave Davis returns for another edition of Newsround on Anfield Index Part 2, focusing on Liverpool's increasingly important contract negotiations involving Rio Ngumoha, Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker.

The biggest talking point surrounds Rio Ngumoha's future, with David Lynch revealing on Media Matters that negotiations over a new Liverpool contract have not made significant progress.

Despite the youngster's impressive recent performances and positive comments about his future, Lynch's update suggests there is still work to be done before an agreement is reached.

Dave discusses why Liverpool must prioritise securing Ngumoha's long-term future, particularly with the highly rated winger continuing to develop under Andoni Iraola.

Attention then turns to Virgil van Dijk, whose contract situation is becoming increasingly important as Barcelona reportedly consider a move for the Liverpool captain.

With Van Dijk approaching the end of his current deal, Dave urges sporting director Julian Ward to act quickly and make Liverpool's desire to retain their defensive leader absolutely clear.

There's also a major discussion surrounding Alisson Becker, with Dave insisting that keeping the Brazilian goalkeeper should be another priority for Liverpool's recruitment team.

Having previously played an important role in Mohamed Salah's contract renewal, Ward now faces another significant challenge in securing the futures of Liverpool's most influential players.

Dave explains why he remains hopeful that Van Dijk and Alisson will extend their stays at Anfield, while acknowledging that neither agreement can be taken for granted.

With Liverpool also facing important decisions in the January transfer window, the pressure is mounting on the club's sporting director to deliver both on and off the pitch.

Will Liverpool secure Ngumoha, Van Dijk and Alisson, or could contract uncertainty become another major problem at Anfield?

All this and more on Newsround with Dave Davis, bringing you the latest Liverpool FC news, contract updates and analysis.