Virgil van Dijk believes Bradley Barcola’s signing shows Liverpool can still attract top players.
Barcola travelled to Merseyside on Sunday to put the finishing touches on his move from Paris Saint-Germain with a package of around £123 million struck this week.
The two-time Champions League winner will bolster the Reds’ attack in a window where they have only made two new additions in Victor Munoz and Ronald Araujo.
But Van Dijk feels that Barcola’s arrival offers an indication that Andoni Iraola’s side are still capable of attracting the best players available from within Europe’s elite.
“He’s a good player,” admitted the Liverpool captain.
“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.
“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.
“Until it’s official, there’s no point speaking about it.”
Van Dijk also hopes that compatriot Cody Gakpo will stay at Liverpool despite the winger edging towards a move across the Premier League with Manchester City.
The Netherlands international could join the ranks at the Etihad Stadium for around £85M but his teammate for club and country is hoping his friend remains at Anfield.
Van Dijk added: “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.”