Virgil’s keen on Kop move
SOUTHAMPTON’S Virgil van Dijk has told Jurgen Klopp he wants to move to Anfield – and make history.
Liverpool are now confident of winning the contest with Manchester City and Chelsea to make Van Dijk the world’s most expensive defender, although they still have to agree a fee.
Liverpool are prepared to match their far wealthier rivals in meeting the asking price for the Dutchman – believed to be about £60million.
They are prepared to compete in terms of salary, which would see Van Dijk top the club-record £150,000 a week Klopp gave Philippe Coutinho last season. That, along with Klopp’s persuasive powers, has left Anfield as Van Dijk’s likely destination – with bookies suspending betting on that outcome last night. The only concern for Klopp, as he attempts to make the 25-year-old the cornerstone of his new-look defence, is the danger that Liverpool are drawn into an auction.
Pep Guardiola is known to be desperate for Van Dijk and, should Southampton succeed in playing off the interested parties, there is no way Liverpool could compete if oil-rich City or Chelsea push the fee beyond £60m. FORMER Tottenham captain Gary Mabbutt is to undergo heart surgery.
Spurs said the 55-year-old ex-England defender, right, who is diabetic, was admitted to hospital yesterday after experiencing chest pains and breathing problems. The club tweeted: “Everyone wishes our legendary former captain a speedy recovery. Get well soon, Mabbsy!”