Van Dijk backs £123m Barcola signing but warns Liverpool not to sell Gakpo

Virgil van Dijk has given his blessing to Liverpool’s £123 million pursuit of Bradley Barcola, but the club captain has urged his employers not to let Cody Gakpo leave Anfield in the same window. Barcola is set to undergo a medical on Merseyside before putting pen to paper on a five-year contract, after Paris Saint-Germain accepted an initial £110 million fee with a further £13 million in add-ons.

The deal would make the France winger the second most expensive signing in Liverpool’s history, and arrives as the club sits without a win from its opening two Premier League games under new head coach Andoni Iraola. Some supporters have questioned the logic of adding another forward rather than reinforcing midfield or defence, but Van Dijk was unequivocal in his support.

“He’s a good player, that’s the only thing I can say,” Van Dijk said. “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 Dutch defender pointed to Barcola’s pace as a key asset, referencing a memorable goal the winger scored against Chelsea. “If he comes here then he will be welcomed with open arms,” Van Dijk added. “But until it’s official, there’s no point speaking about it.”

Barcola’s imminent arrival has fuelled speculation that Gakpo will be moved on, with both Tottenham and Manchester City reported to be monitoring the 25-year-old. Van Dijk made clear he wants no part of that outcome.

“What do you think? He’s a quality player. I think we should keep quality players,” Van Dijk said when asked directly whether Gakpo should stay. “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.”

The transfer window closes on Tuesday, leaving Liverpool’s hierarchy a narrow timeframe to decide whether to cash in on Gakpo or heed their captain’s advice and keep the squad depth intact as the season gathers pace.