Premier League champions Chelsea under the reign of Antonio Conte are plotting to beat Liverpool to the signing of Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk, according to The Times
The London Blues are reportedly preparing a £50m for the Saints defender, who is currently training alone after telling the club he wants to leave to his club of choice which he didn't reveal . Van Dijk remains furious that his club pulled the plug on a £60m move to Anfield.
Liverpool issued a statement ending their interest in Van Dijk and apologising for a misunderstandingafter Southampton reported them to the Premier League for an alleged illegal approach.
With Van Dijk frozen out, Southampton appeared to have little choice but to back down and sell to Liverpool. Chelsea’s apparent interest could give them another option.
The Times’ report claims the Blues are optimistic of completing a deal for Van Dijk before the start of the new Premier League season.
