London — Southampton has reported Liverpool to the Premier League over an illegal approach for defender Virgil van Dijk, British media reported on Tuesday. The development is the latest twist in a transfer saga involving the sought-after centre-back linked with a £60m move away from St Mary’s. Although the 25-year-old has not commented on his situation, British media reports on Tuesday said he told Liverpool he wanted to join the club ahead of rival suitors Chelsea and Manchester City, even though Southampton denies receiving any approach from the Reds. A person familiar with the situation said the Saints were unhappy with the reports and, following a meeting of the club’s hierarchy, asked the Premier League to investigate whether any rules had been broken.

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