Relations between Southampton and Liverpool have taken a sour turn over the prospective transfer of Virgil Van Dijk.
The Independent claim the Saints are set to report the Reds to the Premier League after what they believe has been an illegal approach for the defender.
Jurgen Klopp is keen to sign the centre-back and is making the deal his number one priority.
The Dutchman has suggested that the feeling is reciprocated having spoken with Klopp, but Southampton insist they are yet to receive an official approach.
It’s clear that the 25-year-old is becoming unsettled on the South Coast, and it’s equally apparent that he will have plenty of offers this summer despite having missed much of the season just gone because of an ankle injury.
Liverpool should be careful not to alienate Southampton, who have essentially been a feeder club for them over the last few years.
Van Dijk was expected to be just another player to follow in the footsteps of Sadio Mane, Adam Lallana, Dejan Lovren, and others.
The disagreement between the two clubs should not scupper the centre-back’s departure entirely, but it might well influence Southampton’s decision on the bids they accept if another side makes a move.
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