Report: Southampton weighs up bid for Celtic's Virgil van Dijk

Southampton are searching north of the border for a new defender, turning their attention to Celtic defender Virgil van Dijk.

The Premier League side are exploring the possibility of submitting an offer to the Scottish champions in an attempt to add a centre-back after their main target Toby Alderweireld joined Tottenham, league sources told ESPNFC.

A potential deal for the Dutch defender, however, may have to wait until Celtic's quest to qualify for the Champions League concludes.

Either way, Van Dijk looks destined for an exit following comments where he expressed his hopes that Celtic will consider offers for his services.

"Of course the Champions League millions are important for Celtic, but they cannot dismiss any interest," Van Dijk told Voetbal International, according to ESPNFC.

"If the correct amount is placed on the table, then they will really think about it. If Celtic want to earn money from me, the club must act now.

"It is time for a new challenge. This year I'll turn 24, and I need something new. More pressure, better opponents, especially when you think of the European Championships next year."

Van Dijk has won three major trophies in Scotland since joining Celtic from Groningen in 2013, capturing two league titles and one Scottish Cup.