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James Dodd, a journalist from Fox Sports News, says conversations have been held between Arsenal, Van Dijk and his representatives over a possible move.

Dodd, who follows Arsenal, tweeted: “#AFC have met with Van Dijk & his reps but I’m fairly sure all the big PL clubs have. I guess Saints would rather sell to us than Liverpool.”

The news will be a hammer blow to Liverpool who have been chasing the Dutchman all summer.

Van Dijk wants to leave St Mary’s and he’s Jurgen Klopp’s top target to strengthen the defence.

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Virgil van Dijk wants to leave Southampton
However, Liverpool will only bid if Southampton make it clear they are open to offers for the Dutch international.

Southampton this week signed Holland centre-back Wesley Hoedt but the club insist Van Dijk will not be sold.

That’s despite the central defender having still not joined first-team training under new manager Mauricio Pellegrino.

Arsene Wenger this morning left the door open for Shkodran Mustafi to leave the club before the transfer window shuts.