The story between defender Virgil van Dijk and Southampton seem to have taken a twist turn as the Saints have decided to keep the player despite his request for a transfer before the transfer window closes.
Earlier this week, Van Dijk have tried to force a move to either Liverpool or Chelsea. The Saints would rather like to have him play for them this season or be on the bench, than to allow him leave for The Reds or the Blues.
The 26-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to Liverpool but the Reds had previously been accused of illegally approaching the centre back earlier this summer, Liverpool quickly tender an apology for their action.
After the Dutch Defender tabled a transfer request to the Saints, the Premier League Rivals, Chelsea and Liverpool have been understood to have prepared a bid worth £60 million for the Dutch. According to reports, a club insider revealed that regardless of the funds they will hold on to their star.
“We do not want to sell Virgil to Liverpool and will happily let him sit in the stands all season if we have to.
“Most of the fans would back the club in this after everything that has gone on.”
Despite Chelsea’s interest, the Dutch international would prefer a move to Merseyside Club and the reason is yet to be known. Although Chelsea have list of top notch defenders and he may not get a regular playing time at the Stamford Bridge.
Liverpool on the other hand, are currently short of options in their Centre back position and Van Dijk would easily slot into Reds team to partner with Lovren in the Centre, and probably reunite with his former teammate Sadio Mane.
The Insider however did not say they are unwilling to sell but have problem with Liverpool instead, which means Chelsea have emerged favourite to sign the Defender.
