Virgil van Dijk scores outrageous free kick in training
Liverpool have finally got their man in Van Dijk, breaking the bank to prise the Holland international away from Southampton.
The Reds were keen to sign the former Celtic ace back in the summer, but postponed a bid until the winter after being accused of making an illegal approach.
And Spanish website El Confidencial say Liverpool decided to spend such a huge amount on Van Dijk out of fear that Manchester City could hijack their deal.
City are currently flying high at the top of the Premier League table, winning their last 18 league games.
Pep Guardiola’s side sit 15 points clear of Manchester United at the summit and, consequently, look destined to take the crown.
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Virgil van Dijk: Liverpool broke the bank to sign the Southampton defender
But, despite that, Guardiola still wants to sign a centre-back.
Nicolas Otamendi and John Stones have both blossomed at the back so far this season.
Yet Vincent Kompany and Eliaquim Mangala’s futures are both uncertain.
El Confidencial say City were determined to land Van Dijk ahead of Liverpool.
But Jurgen Klopp managed to convince Southampton into selling after suggesting a huge £75m fee.
Pellegrino: Van Dijk transfer will be positive for Southampton
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Virgil van Dijk: Man City wanted to beat Liverpool to the Southampton star
Meanwhile, Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville has questioned the Reds’ decision to spend big on Van Dijk.
“It’s a lot of money!” he told Sky Sports.
“When I first heard it I thought ‘wow, £75m.’
“I’m not surprised by the actual transfer but that is an incredible amount of money.
“Liverpool need defenders and have to pay to get him. That’s the way the market is and it isn’t going to change.”
