Liverpool transfer news: Barcelona make enquiry for Virgil van Dijk… but their approach was quickly rejected
Barcelona have history when it comes to signing Liverpool players, bringing in Luis Suarez in 2014 and Philippe Coutinho in 2018 - but they'll NOT be getting their hands on the Dutch defender
Barcelona reportedly made an enquiry about Virgil van Dijk - but their approach was quickly rebuffed by the Liverpool star's agent.
Van Dijk, who is widely regarded as the best defender in world football, is on the radar of the LaLiga giants as they hunt for a new centre-back ahead of the new season.
The Dutchman has been a revelation in defence for Liverpool since joining from Southampton in January 2018 for £75million. He helped the Reds keep 22 clean sheets in 38 Premier League games last season, the most in the division, and also played a key role as Liverpool lifted the European Cup in June.
And it is superb this form that has prompted Barcelona to make Van Dijk a target.
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However, according to the Mirror, the Catalans were swiftly shut down when they moved for the centre-half.
Barca are claimed to have approached Van Dijk's representatives to see whether he would be open to leaving Liverpool this summer, though his agent made it clear no move was going to happen.
'They did not bother taking it further', the report continues.
Barcelona have history when it comes to signing Liverpool players, bringing in Luis Suarez in 2014 and Philippe Coutinho in 2018.
Van Dijk, the PFA Player of the Year, will join up with the rest of his Liverpool team-mates for pre-season on Saturday, having been given extra time off due to his participation in the UEFA Nations League.
Jurgen Klopp's side thrashed Tranmere Rovers 6-0 on Thursday, with Rhian Brewster scoring twice, as they build towards their opening fixture of the season against Championship winners Norwich on August 9.