Liverpool end Van Dijk chase, apologise to Saints

Liverpool have apologised to Southampton over “any misunderstanding” surrounding their interest in defender Virgil van Dijk and say they have dropped their interest in signing the player.

It seemed as though the Reds were closing in on Van Dijk after identifying him as their main summer transfer target.

Their approach in terms of trying to get the player angered Southampton however, and it was reported earlier this week that Saints had lodged an official complaint against their Premier League rivals.

On Wednesday, it was claimed that they would demand up to £75million for Van Dijk, who really did seem like a wonderful fit.

But in a bizarre twist, the Reds released an official statement on their website apologising for their conduct and making it clear they would no longer pursue the Dutchman. It read:

‘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.

‘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.’