Man Utd want Southampton defender

Manchester United are looking into a deal for Southampton's Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk. The Netherlands international has been identified as a potential option to strengthen the Red Devils' backline.

Van Dijk was on the radar of the likes of Arsenal and Manchester United before he decided to join the Saints from Celtic in 2015.

According to The People, Jose Mourinho has highlighted the need for a commanding figure in the heart of the defence with England international Chris Smalling struggling to replicate his performances of last season.

The Mancunian giants were on the pursuit of Saints centre-half Jose Fonte in the summer, but they have now shifted to Van Dijk, who is a much younger option whilst he has adapted well to the English game.

Southampton have been deemed a selling club over the years, but they are unlikely to offload any player midway through the league campaign.