Southampton fans are having a field day.
Southampton’s Virgil van Dijk looks dejected
Liverpool last night abandoned plans to sign Virgil Van Dijk after announcing a very public apology and U-turn to Southampton.
It was reported this week by The Mirror that Liverpool had ‘won’ the race to sign the Dutchman, with the defender choosing to sign for the Reds.
The problem was no approach had been made to Southampton themselves, and the Saints threatened to report the Reds to the Premier League for tapping up the centre-back.
Southampton’s Virgil van Dijk heads clear
This led to Liverpool’s statement last night, which was not just an apology, but a pledge not to buy the defender.
It’s hugely embarrassing for Liverpool and a serious blow to their transfer plans, with Van Dijk apparently a top priority who they were prepared to make their record signing.
Now they risk seeing Van Dijk sign for a Premier League rival, and must re-assess their own options.
Southampton’s Virgil van Dijk celebrates scoring
Southampton may not be able to keep the Dutchman, but this is a small victory in itself over a club which has routinely raided them for talent.
Adam Lallana, Rickie Lambert, Nathaniel Clyne, and Dejan Lovren have all swapped the south coast for Anfield, but now the Reds have put a stop to it.
Here is a look at how Southampton fans have gleefully reacted on Twitter…
Southampton’s Virgil van Dijk misses a chance to score
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