Liverpool remain confident of luring Van Dijk despite Southampton stance

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp is reportedly confident of pursuing a deal for Southampton's Virgil van Dijk despite Claude Puel seemingly dismissing a summer exit. 

The Merseyside outfit have pursued a line of Southampton stars in recent seasons, and it is suggested that Van Dijk could be the latest player to switch between the clubs.

Van Dijk has not played a league game since January due to injury, but he is nevertheless topping the transfer shortlists of several top clubs including Manchester City and Chelsea.

Following the Reds scoreless draw at Anfield, Saints boss Puel was asked on Van Dijk's situation for which he insisted that the player would stay put at St.Mary's next season.

Despite the comments, the Anfield-based club appear confident of striking a deal with their league counterparts with Van Dijk likely to push for a Reds move, should they attain Champions League qualification, The Star reports.

Southampton are likely to demand a fee close to £50m if they are to part ways with the Holland international in the summer.