Virgil van Dijk has urged Cody Gakpo to stay at Liverpool as talks progress over a potential move to Manchester City, which is reportedly valued at around £85 million. Gakpo has started both of Liverpool's opening Premier League matches this season.
"What do you think? He's a quality player. I think we should keep quality players," Van Dijk stated when asked about Gakpo's potential transfer. "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 to us."
Liverpool is reportedly only willing to sanction Gakpo's departure if they secure another winger, in addition to the impending signing of Bradley Barcola for £123 million. The club has also reportedly considered Ismaila Sarr of Crystal Palace and Yankuba Minteh of Brighton.
Barcola is currently in England and is expected to undergo a medical ahead of signing a five-year contract. "He's a good player, that's the only thing I can say," Van Dijk commented on Barcola. "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."
Van Dijk added that Barcola is a player with pace and recalled a goal he scored against Chelsea, stating, "If he comes here then he will be welcomed with open arms."
Frustrated by Liverpool's start to the season, Van Dijk emphasized the importance of squad enhancement. "Adding quality to the squad always makes a difference. Let's see what the next few days bring. After Tuesday (transfer deadline) we have to fight for everything with no regrets," he said. "We have to score more, concede less, dominate more with and without the ball."
Van Dijk also reflected on the team's home record, noting that Nottingham Forest had secured draws at Anfield in recent seasons. "Nottingham Forest have come here the last three seasons and remained unbeaten. That shouldn't happen. In all the years I've been at the club it hasn't happened. It's down to us to make sure we are a unit - every member of the squad together with our fans."