Klopp: This is Van hell of a good deal

JURGEN KLOPP has told Liverpool fans to forget about Virgil van Dijk’s monster price tag. The Anfield side smashed the world record for a defender by splashing out £75m to Southampton for the Dutch ace (right). The 26-year-old will officially become Liverpool’s most expensive player when he completes his move on Monday. Former England captain Alan Shearer has led the critics blasting the deal, claiming the centre-back is not worth the money. But boss Klopp (left) hit back, saying: “Quality – that’s why we got him, that’s why we were interested in him. “We don’t make the prices, the market does. Liverpool supporters should forget about the price. We only talk

about the player and what he can bring in; the quality, the mentality, the character.

“That is why we are really happy about it.”

Klopp wanted to sign the former Celtic star in the summer for £60m before the Reds were forced into an embarrassing public apology after being accused of tapping him up. Liverpool want Van Dijk to help plug a defence which has leaked 23 league goals this term – seven more than any other team in the top four.

He will be at Anfield tomorrow to watch his new team-mates take on Leicester and hopes to make his debut against Everton in the FA Cup a week today, although he cannot train with his new club until Monday.

With Liverpool in action at Burnley the same day, it could be next Wednesday before he completes a full training session with his new team-mates.

“We already have quality here in that position so we don’t have to rush anything,” said Klopp.

“He needs to adapt to our style of play. It’s a completely different game, but we are 100 per cent sure he will do it.”

Former Saints striker Shearer (below) claims his old club have pulled off a great deal.

“Southampton have got one hell of a deal,” said the ex-England star. “Van Dijk is a good player, yes, but for £75m? No, he’s not worth it at all. “Southampton could have named any price they wanted. “They knew Liverpool were absolutely desperate for a centre-half. “Everyone is aware they are desperate – we have seen them come up short several times this season.”

But former Saints boss Claude Puel says Van Dijk can become the best defender in the world.

“I know he is one of the best defenders in the world and he has all the qualities to become the best,” he said.

“It is a fantastic signing for Liverpool.”