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Chelsea join Manchester clubs and Liverpool in the race to sign Virgil van Dijk in January
CHELSEA have entered the race to sign Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk in January, according to reports.
Virgil van Dijk Player Profile
Antonio Conte is looking to reinforce his defence despite flying to top spot in the Premier League having reshuffled to a back three.
David Luiz, Gary Cahill and Cesar Azpilicueta have helped the Blues win eight games in a row and have kept captain John Terry out of the side.
Kurt Zouma is also back from injury but is yet to make an appearance for the first team.
Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk is on Chelsea's radar
Antonio Conte wants to bolster his defence in January when the transfer window reopens
And the Times report that Chelsea are considering a move for Van Dijk, 25, when the transfer window reopens next month.
The Holland international joined from Celtic in 2015 for £13m and it emerged last week that he has a £25million buyout clause.
However Chelsea will have to battle with Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool and Everton for his signature.
Van Dijk has become one of the top centre-backs in England over the last 18 months and has been key for Claude Puel’s side this season.
Virgil van Dijk joined Southampton from Celtic in 2015
Former Chelsea midfielder Ray Wilkins believes he would be perfect for Conte.
“Van Dijk has had a fantastic time since he has come down Celtic, almost looked a little bit of a snip for what Southampton got him for,” Wilkins told talkSPORT.
“He has improved and he looks a very good defender.
“He would bring on the youngsters coming through as well because he is excellent on the communication side of stuff. He would be a perfect fit [for Chelsea].”
But Saints boss Puel insists he should stay put and continue his development on the south coast.
“Van Dijk is a great player now,” said Puel. “But he has a contract with Southampton and it is important he stays to continue his work.
“He must become one of the best five or six defenders in the world. He has the capacity. It is important he continues with stability and Southampton is a good club for him.”
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