Virgil van Dijk has spoken publicly about transfers involving Bradley Barcola and Cody Gakpo before Liverpool made any official announcement. The Reds captain threw his support behind the club's move to sign Barcola in a £123m deal.
Barcola is due to undergo a medical on Merseyside before signing a five-year contract, after Paris Saint-Germain agreed an initial £110m fee, plus £13m in add-ons. The forward is set to become the second most expensive signing in the club's history.
Fans frustrated by forward signing
Some fans have voiced frustration at the club's decision to bring in another forward, insisting new manager Andoni Iraola should prioritise reinforcements in midfield and defence. However, Van Dijk believes Liverpool are securing a world-class talent who will add magic to a side that has failed to win either of its opening two league fixtures this season.
Van Dijk said: "He's a good player, that's the only thing I can say. I don't think there's any doubt that a club like Liverpool is very attractive to very good players."
"This is one of the biggest clubs in the world. We all know that we're going through a little bit of a transition. You either want to be a part of it or you don't. The window is open until Tuesday, right? Let's see what happens."
Van Dijk praises Barcola's pace
Van Dijk added: "He's a player with pace. I remember a goal he scored against Chelsea. If he comes here then he will be welcomed with open arms. But until it's official, there's no point speaking about it."
Gakpo's future in question
Barcola's arrival is expected to prompt Gakpo's exit from Anfield, with Manchester City set to beat Tottenham to the Dutchman's signature. Yet Van Dijk has urged Liverpool's hierarchy not to offload Gakpo, saying it would be a grave error.
When asked whether he wanted the winger to remain at the club, Van Dijk said: "What do you think? He's a quality player. I think we should keep quality players."
"Let's see what the next few days bring. I want him to stay not only because he's a quality player, but also because he's a friend of mine. He's very important for us."
