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Rumours linking Southampton’s van Dijk to Liverpool continue to persist

By Chris Hughes

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 08: Virgil van Dijk and Ryan Bertrand of Southampton look dejected as they are eliminated after the UEFA Europa League Group K match between Southampton FC and Hapoel Be'er-Sheva FC at St Mary's Stadium on December 8, 2016 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 08: Virgil van Dijk and Ryan Bertrand of Southampton look dejected as they are eliminated after the UEFA Europa League Group K match between Southampton FC and Hapoel Be'er-Sheva FC at St Mary's Stadium on December 8, 2016 in Southampton, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images) /
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Just when Southampton fans thought they could get a rest, rumours have re-emerged to suggest than Virgil van Dijk will hand in a transfer request.

If reports across various tabloids are to be believed, then the VVD transfer saga could be in for yet another twist, with suggestions that he will submit a formal transfer request.

Back at the start of summer it was suggested that that would be the only way the club would consider selling the man, with Liverpool now seemingly the only team in the race.

Chelsea were also battling the Reds for the Dutchman’s signature, but having become frustrated with the Saints they have instead signed German international Antonio Rudiger.

Liverpool were nearly reported for the illegal tapping-up of the Saints’ team captain, and following a formal apology it was believed that the Saints would not be bothered again by Jurgen Klopp’s side.

However it now seems that Liverpool have continued to persist for the man they believe could lead the weakest part of their team – the defence. A deal would potentially make him the most expensive defender of all time, assuming it’s more than the £50 million Chelsea received from PSG for David Luiz.

Southampton had been standing strong on the sale of their talisman, having sold near-enough every talent they’ve had since returning to the Premier League.

However if reports are to turn true and van Dijk has submitted a transfer request, then it begs the question as to whether the club would stand in his way?

Keeping an unsettled player can be more poisoning to the squad than selling him, which suggests that the club have to go back on everything they’ve previously said. Last summer John Stones had a transfer request rejected by Everton, but that was soon accepted and he ended up joining Manchester City.

However selling van Dijk would alienate a good portion of the Saints fanbase, with the club only releasing statements that have cemented their confidence in keeping the former Celtic man.

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