Furious Southampton Want Liverpool’s “Illegal Approach” For Van Dijk Investigated

Southampton have requested the Premier League to investigate an alleged illegal approach for their defender Virgil van Dijk from Liverpool, reports Sky Sports.

Transfer columns in newspapers have blown up in recent weeks with rumors constantly linking the Dutchman with a switch to Anfield, and some bookies have even suspended betting on the deal taking place.

Van Dijk himself has shown an eagerness to make the move to Liverpool, but despite this, Southampton are yet to receive any official contact from the Merseyside club about the defender’s availability.

The former Celtic star still has five years to run on his current contract with the Saints – he signed a six-year deal with the club only 11 months ago – which means they are in a strong position to turn down any bids for him.

Rumours have been rife that the center-back is set to move to Liverpool in a deal that could be worth around £60 million – a world record fee for a defender, eclipsing the amount Manchester City paid for John Stones by £10 million.

However, talks between Southampton and Liverpool have still not begun officially, and it is understood that the south coast club are irritated and furious at what they see as an attempt to unsettle the defender, and will turn down any bid that is made.

Reports suggest that Liverpool have offered van Dijk a contract with a salary of £180,000-a-week, but are prepared to up that figure by a further £20,000 to match Manchester City’s offer of £200,000-a-week.

City and Chelsea are both keen on signing van Dijk as well, but the player is apparently drawn towards the prospect of playing under Jurgen Klopp, and would prefer a move to Anfield instead.

Van Dijk has not played since January, when he suffered ankle ligament damage, and he will be determined to get back to playing as soon as possible. Whether that will be in red and white, or blue, is yet to be seen.

 

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