Southampton 'rule out Virgil van Dijk sale'

Southampton have reportedly ruled out the possibility of selling Virgil van Dijk in the closing stages of the transfer window.

Liverpool have been long-time admirers of the centre-back, but were forced to officially withdraw their interest in the Dutchman earlier this summer after being reported to the Premier League due to an alleged illegal approach.

Reports suggested that the Reds were still hopeful of striking a deal on deadline day, but Sky Sports News reports that Southampton have now made a final decision not to sell.

Van Dijk is understood to be desperate to leave the club and is yet to feature this season due to the uncertainty over his future.

Manchester City and Chelsea had also previously been linked with the 26-year-old, but he is thought to favour to move to Anfield.