As new Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola prepares to go into his first festive fixture list in the Premier League reports continue to surface about the possible signing of the superb Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk.
The Daily Mail writes:
Manchester City to offer £50m for Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk
Discreet talks over a move for the Holland star have taken place over the last two weeks as City position themselves to get a deal done next month.
Manchester City have spent huge money on defenders over the last couple of seasons but none of them have been wholly convincing.
While Mangala was a disaster and Otamendi has looked vulnerable at times, John Stones is a brilliant defender but continues to make mistakes in his fledgling career.
So the prospect of signing the Dutchman makes a lot of sense to TFF. Because Van Dijk is still fairly young but looks so composed for his age.
He has really come on in leaps and bounds over the last 18 months and made his debut for Holland last year. He’s gone on to make 12 appearances for his country and has become a fan favorite at Southampton since his move from Celtic last year.
The reported Manchester City target has played 53 times for the Saints and scored four goals. He is imperious in the air but also so relaxed with the ball at his feet and he could really bring a sense of composure and calm to the Manchester City defence.
Manchester City fans – is this a ridiculous fee or is he worth the money?