Liverpool are determined to beat Chelsea to the signing of Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk.

The London Evening Standard says both Premier League giants want to bolster their back-line at the end of the season and Van Dijk is now top of their wish-lists.

The 25-year-old, who joined Southampton from Celtic in 2015, has five years left on his current contract.

Chelsea will hold a major advantage over their transfer rivals Liverpool if Jurgen Klopp's side miss out on Champions League football next season.

However, Liverpool believe their rich history and strong relationship with Southampton will not rule them out of a deal even if they fail to claim top European football.