The Dutchman failed to clinch a dream move to Anfield this summer.

Chelsea and Arsenal were also in the hunt but Southampton held firm over their ‘not for sale’ stance.

The 26-year-old was determined to leave and now faces the prospect of reintegrating with the squad.

Van Dijk has returned to first-team training although he is some way from being match fit.

Southampton’s captain has not played since January due to injury and the summer transfer saga.

When he does make his comeback though, The Telegraph say Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal will be watching.

The Premier League trio are said to remain interested in Van Dijk.

The centre-half, who is eager to take the next step up in his career, is valued at around £60m.

And while Southampton have made him stay, they could be more open to a sale by the end of the season.

The Telegraph add Mauricio Pellegrino’s side intend to keep him until at least next summer.

A January transfer appears unlikely at this stage, but Jurgen Klopp, Antonio Conte and Arsene Wenger could battle it out again in less than a year’s time.

Neither Liverpool or Arsenal strengthened in central defence in the summer window.

While Chelsea got Antonio Rudiger from Roma, he was not a first choice for Conte.