3 days ago
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Virgil van Dijk has dismissed suggestions that the number of transfers this summer could disrupt Liverpool’s rhythm heading into the new season.
Unusually for a side that so comfortably won the title last term, the Reds’ 2024/25 squad has undergone a major overhaul this window, with six senior arrivals and several significant outings from Arne Slot’s squad.
That is unlikely to be the end of the Reds’ summer business, either. Kostas Tsimikas was omitted from Sunday’s Community Shield squad as he looks to secure a permanent move away from Anfield, while Federico Chiesa, Harvey Elliott, and Ben Doak could all leave in the final weeks of the window.
More incomings are expected too, despite Slot saying on several occasions that the new-look team needs to be given time to gel and form new partnerships. However, speaking after the defeat to Crystal Palace on penalties, Van Dijk said he doesn’t think there has been too much change this summer.
“If you look at the players that come in, I think they played good today. Jeremie [Frimpong] and Hugo [Ekitike] with the goals, Milos [Kerkez] was good, you need time with everything,” claimed the Liverpool skipper.
“If you play together, you know the strengths and what the player likes in terms of positioning. That is obvious. I don’t think in this case there is such a thing as too much change.”
Although Liverpool has spent close to $400million - or just shy of £300M - there’s an acceptance that certain areas of the squad are lacking. Particularly at center-back and the attacking areas, Slot is not spoiled for choice.
That three academy graduates were named on the bench alongside Chiesa and Elliott signifes that Liverpool lacks depth.
Asked whether he feels further additions are needed, the Dutchman replied: “I don’t know, we will find out.
“What I think is that Hugo made an impression on and off the ball since he came in, great finish by the way. Everything that happened with Diogo [Jota] , tragic… Lucho [Diaz] and Darwin [Nunez] leaving.
“Those are three senior attackers. I fully trust the club to do the right thing, what they think is good for the club.”
Liverpool continues to be linked with Alexander Isak heading into the final three weeks of the summer window, while another center-back is expected to be purchased.
Palace chairman Steve Parish admitted after the win over Liverpool that he is open to the possibility of Marc Guehi leaving this summer if it avoids him departing for free next year when his contract expires.
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