Van Dijk welcomes Araújo to Liverpool's defensive line

Virgil van Dijk confirmed he is ready to welcome Ronald Araújo as his new defensive partner at Liverpool, with the deal for the Barcelona defender nearly complete, according to The Guardian.

The Dutch captain made his first pre-season appearance in the friendly against Monaco (3-2 defeat at Anfield), where he played almost an hour. During the match, he conceded a penalty just before half-time that Golovin converted.

"Any player that arrives at the club will be welcome," Van Dijk said about Araújo, expressing confidence in upcoming transfer activity. The Dutchman also showed optimism about Jérémy Jacquet, the £50m signing recovering from injuries, and hinted at possible attacking reinforcements, with Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola on the radar.

Van Dijk also expressed his full support for Andoni Iraola, the club's new manager following Arne Slot's departure, confirming he maintains regular contact with him and is committed to the project.