Throughout the summer, rumours were rife that Liverpool wanted to sign Southampton centre-back Virgil van Dijk to solve their defensive woes.

In the end, the Saints stood firm and refused a sale, which left the Reds in trouble as they did not appear to have a back-up plan.

Van Dijk submitted a transfer request, making it clear that he wanted to move on.

Since the summer window closed, speculation has been circling that the Dutchman will seal a move away from St Mary's in January.

Liverpool and Chelsea have been the two clubs touted in the newspapers as possible suitors for Van Dijk, but now it has emerged that Manchester City have entered the race.

According to The Guardian, manager Pep Guardiola regards the centre-back as a top priority in his transfer activity for January.

The Premier League leaders are keen to strengthen their defence amid concerns over Vincent Kompany's long-term fitness.

After the news emerged, Liverpool fans gave their assessment of the situation.

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