It's one of the longest transfer sagas of the summer window so far, and the proposed move of Virgil Van Dijk to Liverpool just got a helping hand.
This time last month, the Merseysiders were forced to apologise after being accused by Southampton of tapping up Van Dijk. In the statement, they claimed that they were deciding against any negotiations.
We apologise to the owner, board of directors and fans of Southampton for any misunderstanding regarding Virgil van Dijk.
We respect Southampton's position and can confirm we have ended any interest in the player.
The Mirror reports today that Van Dijk has told the Saints that he will only move to Liverpool and no one else. It's understood that the defender wants to play Champions League football, which Jurgen Klopp's side have this season. It's also mentioned that new Southampton manager Mauricio Pellegrino doesn't want unhappy players in his squad.
Van Dijk had been linked with Manchester United and Chelsea after the Liverpool apology. However, United have since brought in Victor Lindelof. If you believe the rumours, Chelsea are in the final stages of bringing in Antonio Rudiger from Roma.
The Reds have made a habit of signing Southampton players in the last few years. If the Mirror is right, then they might yet make their best one yet.
