Virgil van Dijk could yet end up at Liverpool, according to Jamie Redknapp, with the former Reds star talking up a man who would be “one of the signings of the summer”.
Jurgen Klopp has already bolstered his attacking ranks during the current window, with Mohamed Salah acquired in a big-money deal with Roma and Dominic Solanke snapped up at the end of his Chelsea contract.
Van Dijk tipped to force Liverpool move
Redknapp believes the Anfield squad is now well stocked in forward-thinking areas, but has concerns about their defensive strength.
He feels a move for Southampton centre-half Van Dijk would make sense for all concerned, despite previous tapping-up accusations, with the Dutchman reportedly eager to play for Klopp and Liverpool in need of a statement addition at the back.
Redknapp told Sky Sports: “Going forward Liverpool have lots of different options.
“I still worry about them defensively though, and now they’ve got the Champions League to contend with.
“I’m not sure the Virgil van Dijk story is finished. I still think there’s a little bit left to go with that one.
“Liverpool have obviously pulled back at the moment but I still see Van Dijk moving. He wants to play for Jurgen Klopp and I wouldn’t be surprised to see Liverpool signing him.
“That could be one of the signings of the summer because he would make such a difference. He’s colossal. He’s fantastic defensively, great going forward, he scores goals and I think he’s exactly what Liverpool need.
“If they can find a way of getting him in a red shirt next season that would be a great signing for them.”
Liverpool claimed to have ended their interest in Van Dijk in June, with Southampton threatening legal action on the back of what they considered to have been an illegal approach.
A statement on the club’s official website read: "Liverpool Football Club would like to put on record our regret over recent media speculation regarding Southampton Football Club and player transfers between the two clubs.
Gerrard urges Liverpool to sign Van Dijk
"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."
Talk of a possible move has, however, refused to go away, with Premier League rivals Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester City also reported to be keen on the Netherlands international.
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