Antonio Conte​ believes that Premier League clubs must not allow leaders Manchester City to strengthen their squad further with the signing of in-demand defender Virgil van Dijk.

Southampton centre-back Van Dijk is expected to be wanted by several English clubs when the January transfer window opens after he hinted he could be open to a mid-season move away from St Mary's.

The Dutchman handed in a transfer request in the summer as Liverpool, and also Chelsea, circled for his signature although Southampton managed to hold onto the 26-year-old.

But, on Saturday, Van Dijk was dropped by Mauricio Pellegrino for the Saints' clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge - with the Southampton manager afterwards admitting he wants the club to try and keep their best players.

Conte was also asked about Van Dijk although the Italian refused to comment on whether the Blues are still interested in the defender.

But the Chelsea boss has said that every club who wants Van Dijk should do their best to compete with runaway leaders City to ensure Pep Guardiola's side don't end up signing another of the league's top players.

"Every team, every club, must pay great attention," Conte said.

"Because if a club like Manchester City takes all the best [players], it will be very difficult for us to fight. Not only in England but in Europe."