Virgil van Dijk has reportedly told Southampton he still wants to join Liverpool.
The Reds were forced into a climbdown over their interest in Van Dijk amid fears of a Premier League probe over their alleged ‘tapping up’ of the player.
Liverpool’s public apology to Southampton and withdrawal of their pursuit of the Holland international prevented any disciplinary action being taken against them.
But Van Dijk is said to still be keen on pushing through a move to Anfield.
According to the Sunday Mirror, new Saints manager and ex-Liverpool defender Mauricio Pellegrino is willing to offload players that are unhappy at the club.
That could pave the way for Van Dijk’s preferred switch materialising as Pellegrino prepares to strengthen his squad ahead of a debut season at St Mary’s.
Liverpool beat off interest from the likes of Manchester City and Chelsea, to manoeuvre themselves into pole position for the centre-back.
Last month’s statement appeared to have killed off any hopes that Jurgen Klopp would land Van Dijk but the player has remained keen to secure a move.
Southampton are expected to command a fee in excess of £50 million should they elect to sell the 26-year-old.