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Southampton boss rules out Van Dijk exit

Reuters

One of the most coveted defenders in the Premier League won't be on the move when the January transfer window opens.

Southampton manager Claude Puel attempted to put an end to speculation regarding Virgil van Dijk's future at the club when he insisted the Dutch international remains part of the team's plans.

"It's just speculation, and I cannot participate with speculation," Puel told reporters, according to Allan Valente of Sky Sports.

"All the players are in the club's project, and for this season it is important to continue this work with good spirit and this is true with all the players. It is just a rumour and it's not important for me."

Numerous reports have linked the centre-back with a move away from St Mary's Stadium, and Liverpool's reportedly emerged as the favourite to land him.

Van Dijk, 25, has been one of Southampton's top defenders since his arrival from Celtic in 2015. He's appeared in more matches under Puel this season than any other Southampton defender.

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