Role reversal for Liverpool and Southampton
By Roy Emanuel
How a transfer embarrassment has changed two familiar Premier League sides.
Recent years have seen one constant in the football transfer market, no matter how clubs and players move around the globe. That trend has been Liverpool raiding Southampton’s line-up, but now times are certainly changing.
On Wednesday, the Reds issued an official apology to the Saints in regards to their pursuit of centre-back Virgil van Dijk. Liverpool have now stated that they have ended their interest in the talented defender.
Southampton have seen numerous individuals this decade leave the St. Mary’s Stadium for Anfield, with Adam Lallana, Nathaniel Clyne, Dejan Lovren and Sadio Mane just some of the players involved.
The current issues stem from Liverpool making illegal contact with the Dutch international.
The statement keeps many details vague, but certainly admits guilt in some manner for advanced discussions with the player.
“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.”
A swap of roles
The fascinating dynamic of the situation comes with an apparent reversal of fortunes between the two Premier League sides, as Southampton were finally able to keep hold of one of their own. Liverpool have appeared intent on utilising their power and resources when it comes to their desired targets, but now find themselves in a tricky situation.
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Reds manager Jurgen Klopp will be looking to improve his back-line, especially with a return to Champions League football on the cards next season.
Virgil van Dijk has been one of the most popular choices for many European clubs, but now Liverpool will need to look elsewhere this summer.
A familiar challenge
Southampton have found themselves losing players and coaches at a rapid rate, seemingly needing to build their squad back up each season. Perhaps frustrated and defiant, the coming months appear to be a time where the Saints will not continue to play the same character.
Another top-half Premier League finish and runners-up in the EFL Cup clearly have given this Southampton side confidence, and that attitude is now present in how the club’s hierarchy will be handling the summer transfer window.
Next: Pulisic puts Spurs and Liverpool on high alert
The 2017-18 campaign will present a new challenge for Southampton. But if there is one thing that this week has displayed already, it is that the Saints will not be pushed around this summer.