Why this Southampton star must snub both Man United and Liverpool and stay put

Would risk losing a starting Premier League spot

Van Dijk already commands a starting spot in a defence that conceded the 5th least amount of Premier League goals last term.

He’s clearly comfortable at Southampton, having signed a new contract in May, and is playing great football, why risk that with a move to a new club where his future starting prospects are unknown?

Dejan Lovren has stepped up his game in recent months and looks to have an ever-improving understanding with Cameroonian Joel Matip.

Eric Bailly has settled-in well at United following his summer move, and Smalling was one of their best players last term and could rediscover that form – especially with the added competition of Van Djik driving him on.

All this means a starting spot at either United or Liverpool is by no means assured for the Dutchman.