Despite numerous reports claiming Jurgen Klopp is still keen on signing Virgil Van Dijk, Southampton remain unwilling to sell the defender to Liverpool in particular.
This comes after the club approached the Holland international in a manner the Saints disapproved of, triggering them to lodge a complaint to the FA.
Liverpool have since apologized, and have evaded any punishment, but not without Southampton consequently bumping up the asking price for Van Dijk to in access of £65 million, using John Stones’ £50 million transfer from Everton to Manchester City last summer as a bench-marker.
The Reds are rumoured to be willing to meet their valuation but the south-coast outfit still hold distaste over the ordeal, with some news outlets claiming that they would even fight against the Dutchman sealing a move to Anfield.
Southampton will also want to rid of their mocking-title of being a “feeder club” for Liverpool after a conveyer belt of players have travelled to Merseyside over recent years, including current first teamers Adam Lallana, Dejan Lovren and Nathaniel Clyne.
Klopp’s main rival competing for Van Dijk’s signature is Chelsea’s Antonio Conte, who is looking to replace club legend John Terry as he exits Stamford Bridge. The Italian looks to be lining up a bid circa £60 million for the Southampton team captain.
Whichever club he decides to play football next season will certainly be a story in itself.
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