Who do Liverpool need to sign to retain the title? Keep up with all the Reds news with our free daily newsletter Sign up Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Southampton still fully expect the Premier League to carry out an investigation after they reported Liverpool for the “tapping-up” over van Dijk, despite the Reds issuing an apology.

There is a reluctance from the Premier League to get involved and yet Mirror Sport understands other clubs have offered their support to Southampton and are looking for them to take a strong stance on the matter.

Liverpool apologised privately to Southampton on Wednesday morning after the full extent of the “tapping-up” was revealed and yet the South Coast club insisted that they also make a full public apology.

Southampton have declined to comment publicly but it is understood that privately they have accepted Liverpool’s apology but that does not necessarily mean the end of the matter if the Premier League get involved.

(Image: REUTERS) (Image: Reuters)

Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will start in 8 Cancel Play now

A heavy fine or more severe punishment awaits the Reds should the Premier League be pushed into investigating the matter.

Wednesday's statement on the Reds' website 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," read a statement.

"We apologise to the owner, board of directors and fans of Southampton for any misunderstanding regarding Virgil van Dijk. We respect Southampton's position and can confirm we have ended any interest in the player."