Virgil van Dijk's move to Liverpool fell through over the summer
The 26-year-old Southampton defender was desperate to move to Anfield during one of the summer's biggest transfer sagas.
The Reds made it known they wanted to sign Van Dijk but then were forced into an embarrassing U-turn and a public statement.
An official news release from the club read: "Liverpool Football Club would like to put on record our regret over recent media speculation regarding Southampton Football Club and player transfers between the two clubs.
"We apologise to the owner, board of directors and fans of Southampton for any misunderstanding regarding Virgil van Dijk.
GETTY
Virgil van Dijk didn't get the summer move he wanted to Liverpool
"We respect Southampton's position and can confirm we have ended any interest in the player."
The 'will he go, will he stay' saga went on all summer and Van Dijk went on strike in a bid to force a move.
But it came to nothing as Liverpool missed out and he ended up being reintegrated at Southampton.
On why the move failed, Liverpool idol Heskey told sportingbet.com: "Van Dijk was the one and we took our eye off the ball. Van Dijk has proven what he can do and he would suit Liverpool no doubt about it, but it shouldn't have just been him.
"Liverpool should have had a shortlist of options but they appear to have put all of their eggs in one basket.
"When that fell through they felt they had to move on and stick with what they had."
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
