Virgil van Dijk has offered his assessment of Bradley Barcola's imminent switch to Liverpool, insisting the club retains the same pulling power to entice the world's finest players. The Reds are reported to have agreed a £123million deal with Paris Saint-Germain for the French winger over the weekend, with the transfer edging closer to confirmation after he underwent his medical on Sunday.
Van Dijk praises Barcola quality
Speaking after Saturday's frustrating 2-2 draw against Nottingham Forest, the Liverpool captain was questioned about Barcola's arrival. While the transfer is yet to be announced, Van Dijk provided what insight he could regarding Liverpool's soon-to-be second-most expensive acquisition.
"He's a good player, that's the only thing I can say," said the skipper. "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."
Barcola's history against Liverpool
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. Until it's official there's no point speaking about it."
Van Dijk and Barcola have encountered each other on three occasions during the previous two Champions League campaigns. Luis Enrique's side emerged victorious in two of those meetings, with Barcola providing a crucial assist when PSG triumphed 2-0 at Anfield in April.
Sarr talks continue
Liverpool reportedly remain in discussions over a prospective deal to acquire Ismaila Sarr from Crystal Palace. The Athletic reported last week that the Reds had an initial £50m offer for the player turned down, having apparently been priced out of a move for Brighton's Yankuba Minteh.
Nevertheless, Fabrizio Romano has said on his YouTube channel that Liverpool, Palace and Sarr's representatives continue to hold talks. Sarr has not played for Palace in either of their opening two Premier League fixtures.
The Senegalese forward has found the net seven times against Liverpool in recent seasons, proving to be a persistent thorn in their side. Now, Sarr could switch allegiances to fill Mohamed Salah's boots as the next formidable force along the right flank.
No firm figures have emerged regarding the fee Palace would demand should they choose to part ways with Sarr this summer. Nevertheless, his omission from recent fixtures could suggest the club is keen to keep him in good shape ahead of a possible departure.
