Virgil van Dijk of Liverpool during the Premier League 2026/27 match between Liverpool FC and No
Virgil van Dijk spoke out about Bradley Barcola and Cody Gakpo. (Image: Getty Images)
Virgil Van Dijk has spoken about transfers regarding Bradley Barcola and Cody Gakpo before Liverpool made any form of announcement. The Reds captain has thrown his support behind Liverpool's move to sign Barcola in a £123m deal. He will undergo a medical on Merseyside before putting pen to paper on a five-year contract, after Paris Saint-Germain agreed an initial £110m fee, plus £13m in add-ons.
Fans have voiced their frustration at the club's choice to bring in yet another forward — insisting new manager Andoni Iraola should be prioritising reinforcements in midfield and defence. However, Van Dijk believes Liverpool are securing a world-class talent who will inject some magic into a side that has failed to win either of its opening two league fixtures this season.
Barcola is set to become the second most expensive signing in the club's history.
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.
"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."
Get all the best sports news and much more on our Facebook page
Bradley Barcola #12 of France reacts after the 4-6 loss during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Bronze
Bradley Barcola is set to join Liverpool for an initial £110million. (Image: Getty Images)
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 quizzed on 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."