Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has identified Southampton centre-back Virgil Van Dijk as his first choice defensive signing in January, according to reports in Goal.
Liverpool of course controversially tried to sign the talented Dutch international last summer, and are also expected to renew their interest when the transfer window opens next month.
If a bidding war begins Southampton will be hoping, that if they are to lose one of their best players, it could well be for a fee of around £75 million.
City lost John Stones to a hamstring injury recently and Pep Gaurdiola also confirmed after their recent Manchester Derby victory that skipper Vincent Kompany’s constant fitness issues mean he can no longer be relied upon, so strengthening in the centre of defense will be a priority for the club in January.
Real Sociedad’s Inigo Martinez has also been mentioned as a potential target, although Van Dijks Premier League experience is thought to make him the preferred option.
City have also confirmed recently that they are looking to sign a replacement for the injured left-back Benjamin Mendy next month.