Liverpool apologise to Southampton

Liverpool have released a statement to apologise to Southampton over "any misun­der­standing" and ended their interest in Virgil van Dijk.

Southampton said on Tuesday they would report Liverpool to the Premier League over an suspected illegal approach for him.

A statement from the club said:

"Liverpool Football Club would like to put on record our regret over recent media speculation regarding Southampton Football Club and player transfers between the two clubs.

"We apologise to the owner, board of directors and fans of Southampton for any misun­der­standing regarding Virgil van Dijk.

"We respect Southampton's position and can confirm we have ended any interest in the player."

JC