Arsenal are joining the red hot battle for Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk.

The Mirror says Gunners boss Arsene Wenger wants to hijack Chelsea's move for Van Dijk.

The Gunners boss is also considering a permanent switch to a back three after the system impressed in the win against Middlesbrough on Monday night.

Southampton defender Van Dijk, 25, is on the wishlist for a number of Premier League clubs, including Liverpool, Everton and Manchester City.

Wenger has already made enquiries about the Dutch defender as he plots a major overhaul of his squad this summer.

With all the interest surrounding Van Dijk, his price could soar to £50million.