Southampton 'expecting Virgil van Dijk exit as they turn to Lazio's Hoedt'

Southampton are reportedly pondering their transfer options as they expect Virgil van Dijk to leave the club.

The centre-back has been linked to Chelsea and Liverpool, but widespread reports have claimed that he has his heart set on a move to Anfield.

The Merseyside outfit were forced to withdraw their interest in the Dutchman and issue a public apology to Southampton in June after being accused of tapping up the defender.

However, it is believed that manager Jurgen Klopp remains interested in agreeing a deal to bolster his backline for the upcoming Premier League season.

According to the Daily Mail, the Saints will hold talks with Van Dijk this week, but they are already planning for his departure by mulling over a £12m move for Lazio defender Wesley Hoedt.

Van Dijk trained alone last week after being left out of Southampton's pre-season trip to France.