Phil Jones says Liverpool made a £22m signing that was better than landing Virgil van Dijk

 Liverpool supporters probably wish they could bring in another player this January who could have the same impact as Virgil van Dijk.

Van Dijk made the switch from Southampton and still stands as Liverpool’s most expensive January signing to date.

This year, though, things have been quiet on the transfer front. While Van Dijk was a major mid-season addition back in 2018, it doesn’t look like we’ll see a repeat this time around.

The Reds have often kept their spending in check during winter windows under Fenway Sports Group (FSG). And with Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi expected to move to Manchester City for over £80 million, that’s not likely to change soon.

Phil Jones puts Suarez ahead of Van Dijk

Luis Suarez is one such player. The Uruguayan forward joined from Ajax in 2011, with the BBC reporting the fee at around £22.7m.

When putting together a list of the best January signings for Sports Illustrated, Phil Jones placed Suarez first and Van Dijk third.

“Suarez. I think he made an incredible impact. The goals he scored. What he did for Liverpool, you know, completely changed the way they moved,” Jones said.

“Van Dijk, he’s been brilliant. Pains me to put the two Liverpool players in there, but I’ve got to be honest, I think he’s been an absolute unit at the back.”

Jones was asked: “More impact than Suarez if you’re going to rank them?”

The ex-defender replied: “No, I think Suarez had a bigger impact. That’s why I’m trying to work it out in my head. But no, I think Van Dijk has had such a great impact.

“Okay, maybe he’s not played to that level in the last sort of year – 15 months – but it doesn’t take away what sort of player and what sort of character is.”

Where is Luis Suarez now?

Following his departure from Anfield in 2014, the 38-year-old forward joined Barcelona and formed one of the most feared attacking trios alongside Lionel Messi and Neymar.

After a stint in South America in 2022, Suarez later reunited with Messi at Inter Miami two years later.

The former Liverpool star is still part of the MLS side, where he recently played a key role in their latest title run.

Suarez has made 87 appearances for Inter Miami, scoring 42 goals and providing 29 assists along the way.