Liverpool defender Dejan Lovren is ready for increased competition from any new defensive signing.

Speculation continues to link the Reds with Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk, despite the club having to publicly end their interest in the Holland international after Saints accused them of tapping up the player.

If that was to be resurrected it would bring additional competition for Lovren, who only signed a new five-year contract last season, but he is not worried.

"I can't talk about that. I am just concentrating on Liverpool and my fitness. I think the biggest thing is to improve my fitness," he said.

"It is pre-season but the most important thing is to be free of injuries. I want to be 100 per cent.

"I just need some consistency. (Last season) something happened like an injury or illness and then it was two steps back and I needed a good run to be back in shape so I am preparing myself as best I can.

"I have said many times I am very proud they (Liverpool) believe in my and they have given me a chance to work here. It is a pleasure to be here with this squad.

"We have such a talented squad, such stars who people want to buy but we are here with a reason - because of the club - and no-one wants to go."