Liverpool are facing a decisive final week of the summer transfer window, with both incomings and outgoings on the agenda at Anfield. Andoni Iraola's side opened their Premier League campaign with a 2-2 draw against Newcastle on Sunday, exposing a lack of depth in attack and midfield.
The Reds host Nottingham Forest on Saturday, and supporters are concerned the new Spanish coach could be hampered unless sporting director Richard Hughes acts to address the squad's imbalance. Virgil van Dijk has expressed full confidence in the club's recruitment team to provide Iraola with the necessary resources.
Van Dijk backs recruitment team
Van Dijk said: "Everyone wants to see quality arrive regardless. I fully trust the club and the board to make the right decisions. That's the only thing I can say. Let's see what they do. Regardless of what happens, we are Liverpool and we have to give everything."
So far this summer, Victor Munoz, Jeremy Jacquet and Ronald Araujo are the only additions, despite links to numerous targets. Van Dijk added: "We have nothing to prove to the outside world, in my opinion. It is to ourselves. The way we train, the way we approach games, it is down to us to show a reaction."
PSG chief hints at Barcola and Mbaye moves
PSG sporting director Luis Campos has said the transfer window "isn't over", keeping alive the possibility of moves involving Bradley Barcola and Ibrahim Mbaye. Liverpool have been persistently linked with both players, particularly Barcola, and an offer could materialise this week.
Reports suggest a preliminary agreement for a contract until 2032 has been reached between the club and player, with only a transfer fee left to finalise. Campos told L1+: "The transfer window isn't closed. I understand the question, but you have to understand my position. It's important to defend PSG and the club. You mentioned Barcola and Mbaye; we'll see what happens. It's like this every year."
Gakpo attracts City and Tottenham interest
Manchester City have joined the pursuit of Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo, looking to pip Tottenham to his signature. Gakpo, 27, has been touted for a departure this summer despite being one of the few proven goalscorers in the squad.
Spurs had already seen an offer rejected and the Dutchman has reportedly agreed personal terms on a move to North London. City have now made their opening move to secure Gakpo, who is rated at around £70m. He signed for Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven in 2023 and has scored 51 goals in 181 appearances, including one in the opening-day draw with Newcastle.
