Southampton are confident they will be able to keep Virgil van Dijk through the summer despite a reported £60 million transfer to Liverpool.

Saints questioned how Liverpool knew Van Dijk wanted to join their club despite not making an official approach.

Van Dijk allegedly met Klopp in Blackpool to discuss the proposed transfer, which is not allowed under Premier League rules.

“Liverpool Football Club would like to put on record our regret over recent media speculation regarding Southampton Football Club and player transfers between the two clubs,” the statement read. “We apologise to the owner, board of directors and fans of Southampton for any misunderstanding regarding Virgil van Dijk. We respect Southampton’s position and can confirm we have ended any interest in the player.”