Jurgen Klopp has dismissed criticism of Virgil van Dijk from former Dutch international Rafael van der Vaart, while Liverpool have been warned against paying over the odds for target Yan Diomande. New Reds boss Andoni Iraola has already made his first signing, activating Victor Munoz's £34.6million release clause at Osasuna.
Klopp Defends Van Dijk
After the Netherlands drew 2-2 with Japan at the World Cup, Van der Vaart compared Van Dijk to a "Boeing 747 turning," suggesting the defender is past his best. However, Klopp, working for MagentaTV in North America, completely dismissed the criticism. He said: "I'm not entirely sure if it's worth mentioning Van der Vaart. But if he ever says something positive about any player at some point, then I'll be happy to take him seriously again."
The Netherlands subsequently thumped Sweden 5-1, with Van Dijk playing a key role in one of the tournament's most impressive performances.
Diomande Valuation Warning
Liverpool have seen an £87million bid for Yan Diomande rejected by RB Leipzig, who want closer to £100m for the 19-year-old. Former Premier League striker Jay Bothroyd told Sky Sports that paying £112m would be excessive. "I'm not paying £112 million for him. There is no doubt about it, he is a very good player. But £112million? That would describe you as one of the world's best wingers and I'm not sure that he is," Bothroyd said.
Bothroyd added that £85m would be a fair valuation, but anything above that would not represent good value. Liverpool are expected to lodge another bid as they work to reinforce the squad following a dire title defence that led to Arne Slot's sacking and Iraola's appointment.
Iraola's Early Moves
Andoni Iraola has quickly made his mark at Liverpool, securing Victor Munoz from Osasuna for £34.6m. The club is now focused on further reinforcements, with outgoings also expected. Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson, and Ibrahima Konate are among those set to leave, alongside other high-profile names.
