West Ham defender Jose Fonte has walked back a social media post winding up former Southampton teammates.

Fonte has apologised for causing a stir on social media after suggesting Ryan Bertrand could be next Southampton player to join Liverpool after Virgil van Dijk.

The Dutchman will become the world's most expensive defender when he moves to Anfield for £75million next month.

Fonte, 34, who played with Van Dijk in the heart of the Saints defence before his switch to West Ham a year ago, congratulated his old team-mate on his big money move to Merseyside.

Fonte said on Instagram: “Pleased for you!! Good luck brother!! Another one @iamryanbertrand."

Realising how his post has been interpreted, the Hammers defender, who is battling back to fitness, tried to clear things up.

Fonte said on Instagram: “No disrespect towards Saints whatsoever on the comment made on VVD picture!

“Only saying that another player (6th) moves to Liverpool which was something Bertrand and myself used to joke about!

“Apologies if anyone got upset."