Southampton have reportedly tabled a £7million bid for Celtic's Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk.

The Express is reporting the Saints are hopeful of completing a deal prior to their opening Premier League fixture against Newcastle United on Saturday.

Celtic play the second leg of their Champions League qualifier against FK Qarabag in Azerbeijan on Wednesday, and it is understood Hoops manager Ronny Deila is desperate to have van Dijk in his squad for that clash.

Southampton may be willing to let Celtic finish their tie before finalising a deal for van Dijk.

The 24-year-old centre-back has ambitions to play in the Premier League and is reportedly keen on a move to St Mary's Stadium.