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The fee must be decided, personal terms agreed, the contract drawn up.

But the reality is the hard work has already been done regarding Liverpool's pursuit of Virgil van Dijk.

Never mind the power of Anfield.

Van Dijk's decision to reject overtures from both Manchester City and Chelsea is the most startling example yet of the power of Jurgen Klopp.

When Fenway Sports Group brought the German to Liverpool in October 2015, they knew they weren't just bringing in a top-class manager and outstanding motivator.

They had also acquired one of the most persuasive men in the game.

Such is the allure of Klopp, whose enthusiasm and vision for Liverpool has left a huge impression on van Dijk and his representatives.

Anyone who been fortunate enough to spend time with the Reds boss will know it can be difficult to resist his exuberant, effusive personality, while impossible to ignore the steely determination that lies beneath the often jocular exterior.

And that's what has helped sway van Dijk to not only choose Anfield ahead of Stamford Bridge and the Etihad, but, even more tellingly, put his faith in Klopp ahead of Antonio Conte and Pep Guardiola.

(Image: Getty Images)

Make no mistake, both Chelsea and City wanted van Dijk.

But perhaps Liverpool and Klopp just wanted him more, and made that perfectly clear during this pitch to the 25-year-old.

Yes, there's the money, with FSG prepared to back Klopp's judgement in the player he regards as pivotal to his summer squad strengthening.

Liverpool must now thrash out a deal with Southampton, who will seek up to £60million for van Dijk, which will shatter the existing club record of £35m paid to Newcastle United for Andy Carroll in January 2011.

And once it became clear the Reds are also willing to match the financial packages of the other two suitors, van Dijk has evidently followed his heart, led there by Klopp.

A deal will take time to complete – and supporters should anticipate a few bumps along the way – but the process will be aided by Liverpool and Southampton having travelled this particular path together several times in recent years.

But while £60m is an astonishing amount – although when added to the zero transfer fee paid for likely centre-back partner Joel Matip, it doesn't look quite as eye-watering – the real statement isn't regarding the size of the fee.

By choosing Liverpool, van Dijk is effectively saying he regards the Reds as much challengers next season as City and Chelsea.

It's why Klopp was so delighted a top-four place was secured on the final day of the Premier League season.

Even the German's greatest speech wouldn't have been as resonant without the temptation of Champions League football.

Van Dijk's decision will not pass unnoticed. Players pondering a move to Anfield will now see the club and manager are serious in their attempts to place Liverpool back among Europe's elite.

Of course, top players have long since been drawn to the Reds. Signing leading talent is nothing new.

But Liverpool can now crack on with renewed optimism as they chase their other main targets, with RB Leipzig midfielder Naby Keita and Roma winger Mohamed Salah next on the agenda.

Others, though, will take an increased interest.

The ramifications of van Dijk's expected arrival will be felt far beyond the heart of Liverpool's defence.

And that, more than anything, is down to Klopp.