Virgil van Dijk (foto: Getty Images)
Virgil van Dijk believes Bradley Barcola can add something special to Liverpool, but has made it clear he does not want Cody Gakpo sacrificed to make room.
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Virgil van Dijk has backed Liverpool's blockbuster move for Bradley Barcola but warned the club that allowing Cody Gakpo to leave Anfield would be a mistake.
Liverpool are closing in on the signing of Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain after agreeing an initial £110m fee plus £13m in add-ons. The French international is expected to undergo a medical on Merseyside before signing a five-year contract and becoming the second-most expensive player in Liverpool's history.
The transfer has divided supporters, with some questioning why Liverpool are investing another huge sum in attack when new manager Andoni Iraola also needs reinforcements in midfield and defence. Van Dijk, however, has little doubt about Barcola's quality.
"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," Van Dijk said.
"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: We should keep quality players
The Liverpool captain also highlighted Barcola's pace and recalled one of his goals against Chelsea, adding that the Frenchman would be welcomed with open arms if the transfer is completed. But Barcola's arrival could have major consequences for Gakpo, with Manchester City and Tottenham both interested in the Dutch forward.
Van Dijk made his position very clear when asked whether he wanted his Netherlands teammate to remain at Anfield.
"What do you think? He's a quality player. I think we should keep quality players," he said. "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."
Liverpool have failed to win either of their opening two Premier League matches, increasing the pressure on Iraola during a major period of transition. Barcola could provide another world-class attacking weapon, but Van Dijk clearly believes his arrival should strengthen Liverpool's options rather than result in Gakpo being pushed out.