Transfer Centre

Premier League target Virgil van Dijk open to leaving Celtic this summer

By Danielle Joynson, Staff Reporter | 11 June 2015

Virgil van Dijk suggests that he is prepared to leave Celtic for a Premier League club this summer in order to boost his chances with the Netherlands team.

Virgil van Dijk has admitted that he is considering leaving Celtic this summer amid rumoured interest from various Premier League clubs.

The 23-year-old has been linked to Arsenal, Everton, Crystal Palace, Sunderland and Southampton, but Celtic boss Ronny Deila is desperate to keep the defender.

Despite the club's stance, Van Dijk has suggested that moving to a top-flight side in England will boost his chances of becoming a regular in the Netherlands squad.

"They must understand that, as a footballer, sometimes it's time to make a move," Van Dijk told Voetbal. "Of course, the Champions League millions are important for Celtic, but they cannot dismiss any interest.

"If the correct amount is placed on the table, then they will really think about it. If Celtic want to earn money from me, the club must act now.

"When you play in the Premier League, you are more in the picture. There are several people who have advised me to leave Scotland. This was mainly to move a step higher, but also the Holland team plays a role."

Van Dijk joined Celtic in 2013 from Groningen.