Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk has been one of the most impressive players for the South coast club. Van Dijk had moved to the Premier League from Celtic and the Dutch defender has really done well since making the switch from Scotland.
The 25-year-old was linked with a move away from the Saints in the winter window but no deal could take place for the defender. There have been a host of clubs that are targeting Van Dijk and Sky Sports pundit David Prutton believes that Liverpool have the upper hand if they are interested in the signing of the Saints star.
The Reds have a great business relationship with the Saints and have bought a number of players from the side in recent seasons. Sadio Mane joined the Merseyside club at the start of the season and has been great for Jurgen Klopp and his side.
Liverpool also have former Saints players Adam Lallana, Dejan Lovren and Nathaniel Clyne in their side while Rickie Lambert was also a player that joined the side earlier and was sold later on.
Speaking to the Daily Star, Prutton was not surprised that many top Premier League clubs were looking to sign Van Dijk and stated:
“If you’re one of Manchester United, Manchester City, Tottenham, Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool you’d be foolish not to look at him.
“Liverpool obviously have a good dialogue and a business relationship with Southampton, although I wouldn’t say that puts them at the front of the queue.”
Even though the Reds have a great relationship with the side, Prutton added that the Saints would be looking to sell their star for the maximum amount that is possible.
“You’d think from a business point of view, it probably gives them a head start when it comes to building a rapport and business relationship.
“But the most important word there is business. Liverpool would want to get him for the right price – and Southampton will want as much as they can get.”
Van Dijk’s performances have been one reason why the Saints are playing in the EFL Cup final but the Dutchman will be missing out on the final against Manchester United as he is nursing an ankle injury at the moment.
The former Celtic defender has won more aerial duels and has made more clearances than any other Saints defender this season and when he does move out from the side, Southampton will be making a huge profit on him.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k2nwpIhiJ5A
