MIXED NEWS! Van Dijk gives glowing verdict on £123m Barcola transfer but warns Liverpool bosses ahead of Tuesday's deadline

Virgil Van Dijk has backed Liverpool's decision to land Bradley Barcola in a £123m deal, but warned allowing Cody Gakpo to leave is a mistake.

Barcola will have a medical on Merseyside before signing a five-year contract, after Paris Saint Germain accepted an initial £110m deal, plus £13m in add-ons.

Supporters have criticised the club's decision to land another forward - and insist new boss Andoni Iraola needs to strengthen his midfield and defence instead.

But Van Dijk believes Liverpool are landing a world class talent, who will sprinkle some stardust on a team which has failed to win its first two league games of the new season. Barcola will become the second most expensive signing in the club's history.

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And 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."

Barcola's arrival is expected to see Gakpo leave Anfield, with Tottenham and Manchester City keen on landing the Dutchman. But Van Dijk has told Liverpool bosses that selling Gakpo would be a big mistake.

When asked if he wanted the winger to stay, Van Dijk added: "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."

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