Virgil Van Dijk still Liverpool's top summer target as Reds hope Southampton star will snub Manchester City and ChelseaReds are ready to spend big to land Dutchman, and believe his decision will NOT come down to money
Virgil Van Dijk remains Liverpool's top transfer target this summer, with the Reds hopeful the defender will resist lucrative offers from elsewhere and move to Anfield.The Southampton centre-back is one of the Premier League's most sought-after stars, with a host of clubs looking to secure the Dutchman's signature.
Liverpool have identified the 25-year-old as a key signing, believing Van Dijk would instantly improve Jurgen Klopp's first-team.
The Reds have been encouraged by initial soundings from the former Celtic man's camp, and are willing to smash their transfer record in order to bring him to Anfield, as well as making him one of the club's top earners.
Competition is fierce, with reports this week suggesting Manchester City were preparing to offer Van Dijk a £180,000-a-week contract to try to tempt him to the Etihad. Chelsea and Arsenal are also keen.
Liverpool, though, believe Van Dijk's decision will not come down to money. They are prepared to compete with both City and Chelsea in terms of fee and wages, and remain hopeful that the Netherlands international will choose a move to Anfield.
Liverpool can offer Champions League football, provided they can negotiate a play-off tie in August, and the presence of Klopp as manager is said to appeal to Van Dijk, who has impressed during his two seasons in England with Southampton.RB Leipzig midfielder Naby Keita is another priority this summer, though the Guinean says he will not decide on his future until after a holiday.
The Reds will target a left back having been unable to land Fulham teenager Ryan Sessegnon, while a number of forwards are also on their shortlist as they look to add both proven quality and strength in depth.
The club this week confirmed the signing of Dominic Solanke, who will join from Chelsea on July 1, but the striker will initially go into the U23 pool, with Klopp seeking established players to improve his first-team options in the meantime.
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