City boss Mark Hughes has sounded out contacts in Scotland and Holland to get the inside track on the Dutchman.

Van Dijk, above, is one of several options Hughes is tracking, but he knows that Southampton are already at the table and Everton could also come into the equation if they cash in on John Stones, who is wanted by Chelsea.

Saints boss Ronald Koeman has dropped his biggest hint yet that Van Dijk is his main man.

“I still believe we will get one before the transfer window shuts,” said Koeman.