- Liverpool given hope in Virgil van Dijk deal
- Southampton manager Mauricio Pellegrino admits defender could leave
- Van Dijk was priority target during summer transfer window
- SEE MORE: Liverpool issue highly-anticipated Sadio Mane injury update… Reds relieved
Liverpool have been given the signal to reignite their pursuit of Virgil van Dijk when the transfer window opens in January.
The Dutchman topped Jurgen Klopp’s transfer wishlist in the summer, but saw his own efforts to force a move to Anfield come to no avail.
Alleged secret meetings between Klopp and Van Dijk sparked Southampton to file a complaint against an illegal approach, which subsequently ended Liverpool’s chances.
Despite having been given hope that a deal would still be possible, the Reds found themselves in no position to make a bid as Saints reiterated their refusal to negotiate.
A recent admission from Mauricio Pellegrino that Van Dijk could leave this January has served as fresh hope.
The Southampton manager has conceded his lack of control in the market and the fact every player has his price nowadays.
It was recently reported that Liverpool president Mike Gordon has been working behind-the-scenes to repair the relationship between the two clubs with Southampton chairman Ralph Krueger.
This could prove key when the Reds strive to make amends for the mess they made of the deal during the summer.
Familiar defensive frailties remain in need of addressing on Merseyside, with Klopp’s attacking force unable to compensate for recurring errors at the back.
That said, one route to pursue until the chance to sign Van Dijk would be to shift Joe Gomez into the central role he aspires to occupy as a long-term position.
The 20-year-old has been superb at right-back in the absence of Nathaniel Clyne this season and seen his form earn him an England senior debut against Germany, followed by a start against Brazil.