Liverpool news: Virgil van Dijk will probably leave…but not in January - Matt Le Tissier

That is the view of Southampton legend-turned-pundit Matt Le Tissier. 

Van Dijk, 26, was heavily linked with a move to Liverpool in the summer with Jurgen Klopp making him his top transfer target. 

The Dutch international did everything he could to seal a move to Anfield - including handing in a transfer request - but Southampton insisted he was not for sale.

Liverpool were also forced to publicly end their pursuit of Van Dijk after being accused of illegally ’tapping up’ the centre-back. 

However, the Reds could renew their interest in the former Celtic ace in January after Jurgen Klopp failed to address his defensive frailties.

Liverpool have conceded 12 goals in the Premier League already and are in need of defensive reinforcements. 

But Le Tissier reckons Saints will not let their prized asset go until at least next summer. 

"There doesn't seem to be any problem between the rest of the players and himself,” Le Tissier said. 

"A football changing room is a funny place. You get forgiven for a lot very quickly, as long as you are playing well.

"I could probably see him staying until the end of the season.

"It will be very difficult I imagine to hold onto him any longer than that, given what will probably happen in terms of bids coming in next summer.

"But hopefully he can have a great season for us and help us climb the table first before he leaves."

However, Van Dijk himself seems to think a move in the winter window could be possible. 

He told Fox Sports last week: "Halfway through the season, maybe we can see what is possible.

"I'm glad I'm fit again and I can give up to 100 per cent.

"Of course I wanted to make a step up but Southampton did not want to sell me.

"But you're a professional, so now I'll give everything to the club."