Premier League suitors on red alert over Saints star

Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk will be at the centre of a transfer scramble in the New Year, reports the Sunday Mirror. 

The Dutch centre-back has established himself as one of the first defenders in the Premier League, with his performances not going unnoticed. 

Ronald Koeman is keen to link up with his compatriot at Goodison Park, while Manchester City, Liverpool and Manchester United are all rumoured to be keen on the 25-year-old. 

There is reported to be a £25m release clause in Van Dijk’s contract, which could see a host of the Premier League’s top teams firm up their interest in the player next month. 

United have also been linked with Victor Lindelof, Jose Gimenez and Benedikt Howedes, of Benfica, Atletico and Schalke, respectively, but it’s thought Jose Mourinho’s top target is Van Dijk. 

City, meanwhile, have a number of defensive issues and Pep Guardiola is eager to bring the Netherlands international to the Etihad Stadium to help plug the gap at the back. 

Everton and Liverpool also have money to spend in the New Year and the £25m fee would easy to match next month for all four teams.

For more stats on Virgil van Dijk, click here to view his WhoScored player page