Serie A giants Juventus want Liverpool target Virgil van Dijk as they plot January move for Southampton star
JUVENTUS are reportedly now firmly in the race for Southampton's wantaway star Virgil van Dijk.
The Dutch defender remains desperate to leave the South Coast club despite their refusal to sell him.
And the Daily Mirror claim that Serie A's big boys are ready to try and help him secure an exit in January.
Van Dijk, 26, submitted a transfer request to the Saints in the summer amid interest from Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea.
But Southampton stood firm and rejected all interest in the ex-Celtic man, despite his pleas.
However, ultimately they have been left with a player that no longer wants to be there.
And Van Dijk is now hoping that they will ease their stance and allow him to depart in the new year.
Juventus were stunned when defensive linchpin Leonardo Bonucci left in pre-season.
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The Italian shocked the Old Lady by joining rivals AC Milan, and they have yet to sign a replacement.
They are now set to ask Southampton whether a deal can be struck for Van Dijk once the window re-opens.
The Premier League trio all remain keen on him too.
Liverpool were confident that he was joining them two months ago.
But they were reported by the Saints for making an illegal approach and were forced to issue an apology.
Chelsea will also go back in for Van Dijk if they receive word that he will be given the all-clear to go.
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