Liverpool are preparing to make Virgil Van Dijk the most expensive defender in the world after the Dutchman decided he wants a summer move to Anfield.

Now the Merseyside club will test the resolve of Southampton to keep the 25-year-old international, who is likely to cost a record £60 million should he leave in this transfer window.

Southampton have indicated they are ready to fight to retain Van Dijk and feel they can resist any offers.

Van Dijk has not yet formally confirmed to his current club he wants to make the move and Liverpool have not yet tabled a bid, but that will come soon. It has emerged the centre-back has opted to pursue a move to Anfield rather than Manchester City, Chelsea or Arsenal.

The Dutch defender has been mulling over his options since the end of the season having become one of the most coveted players in the Premier League, but despite the player’s intentions a deal is not close and will require some tough negotiating.