Liverpool transfer news: Liverpool’s response when asked if they would sell Van Dijk shirt

Liverpool have wanted the Dutch centre-back for months and aren’t ruling out a deadline-day bid.

It would serve as part of a huge day of spending at Anfield with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain set to sign.

The Reds are also holding talks with Monaco over a possible deal to sign Thomas Lemar.

We contacted Liverpool’s official club shop this morning to enquire whether there was any way Van Dijk shirts were for sale.

A helpful shop worker asked: “Is it officially signed off now?”

When we confirmed no deal had been confirmed, they added: “Okay, so we can’t print shirts with his name on until he’s actually signed.”

There was a way round it, though. If your name is Van Dijk the club WILL allow you to print shirts.

The worked added: “You’d need to fill out a shirt personalisation form and show that’s your surname.”

Liverpool will have to put a huge bid on the table if they are to get their man but Southampton legend Francis Benali thinks the Dutchman is staying.

“My gut feeling is that Virgil will still be a Saints player when the window shuts,” he said.

“There’s a lot of talk about the money he could go for and seeing the sort of fees some players are fetching it could take a huge, maybe record bid to prise him away after another good season at Southampton.

“Saints could be looking at £80m-plus.

"It will be a decision for the club to take but I’m pleased with the stance they have taken and would like to see him remain a Saints player as long as possible.”