Report: Southampton reports Liverpool over illegal approach for Van Dijk

Virgil van Dijk's preferred destination reportedly crossed a line.

According to the Guardian's David Hytner, Southampton reported Liverpool to the Premier League for allegedly making an illegal approach to Van Dijk. The Saints were apparently irate to see stories linking the Dutch centre-back with a move to Anfield, and made it clear that no offer was received for the defender, whose contract expires in five years.

It was reported on Monday that Liverpool is willing to pay a world-record fee for a defender - expected to be around £60 million with an initial fee of £50 million and potential add-ons valued at £10 million - after Van Dijk decided he wants to join the Reds during the summer transfer window. There is apparently interest from Chelsea and Manchester City, but the footballer told his suitors as well as Southampton that he prefers a move to Anfield.

Liverpool is allegedly also prepared to match City's offer of a contract valued at around £200,000 per week.

If the transfer goes through for the reported prices, Van Dijk will be Liverpool's record signing and highest-paid player.