Everton: Are they interested in Virgil van Dijk or not?

Everton claim they are not pursuing Dutch international Virgil van Dijk, despite rumours to the contrary, so what’s really going on?

Everton are at it again……or are they? In a summer that just keeps getting more surreal for Evertonians, their team have been linked with a rumoured £65 million bid for Virgil van Dijk.

However, the Echo‘s Kristian Walsh later contradicted this speculation, by reporting that Everton are not currently pursuing a deal for van Dijk. Walsh went on to add the Blues are not planning on reinforcing their defence with another potential record deal.

So what’s the real story here? Well, we know manager Ronald Koeman is a big admirer of the Dutch international, after previously bringing him to England when he was in charge at Southampton.

But does this mean Koeman is actually interested in bringing van Dijk to Goodison Park? You have to imagine he would like to, but that doesn’t really stand up, when determining if Everton have made a bid.

More from Prince Rupert's Tower

In addition, the Saints recently said they have no interest in selling any of their key players this summer. As per a report from the Independent’s Mark Critchely, this message was relayed by executive director, Les Reed.

However, as anyone involved in professional football is aware, everyone has their price. In that respect, Southampton apparently want at least £75 million to part company with van Dijk.

Another aspect which could come into play, is the 25-year old’s desire to leave, with him recently admitting he wanted to join Liverpool. Unfortunately for the Reds the deal fell through, when they were alleged to have tapped up the defender.

It would be somewhat ironic, if van Dijk ended up moving to the blue side of Merseyside instead. However, what are the chances of Everton being prepared to pay the asking price for him?

At this stage, no one knows for sure, but the bookies aren’t taking any chances. As reported by Sam Eaton of Oddschecker, the odds of the Saints defender joining the Blues have been slashed dramatically, from 40/1 to as little as 6/1.

Fans have already enjoyed an exciting few weeks, with the Toffees flashing the cash and making several impressive signings. We now wait to find out if they are going to make yet another one, which would have the added bonus of frustrating their city rivals.

Next: Everton better off without Romelu Lukaku

Let’s assume Everton did offer £65 million for van Dijk. If Southampton reject the bid, should the Blues go back with the £75 million reportedly being asked for? Share your thoughts in the comments section.