Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net

IMAGE CREDITS: GETTY IMAGES

Former Premier League boss Neil Warnock has revealed a fascinating story about missing out on the opportunity to sign Virgil van Dijk long before the Dutch defender joined Liverpool.

Van Dijk’s arrival at Anfield from Southampton in January 2018 for a staggering £75 million marked the beginning of a remarkable chapter in his career.

Since then, he has established himself as one of the best defenders in modern football and was bestowed the honour of captaining the club last summer following Jordan Henderson’s departure.

With 267 appearances and 23 goals to his name as a centre-back, Van Dijk has played an instrumental role in Liverpool’s success, clinching eight major trophies during his tenure at Anfield.

However, according to Warnock, the trajectory of Van Dijk’s career could have taken a different path altogether.

Van Dijk’s journey to stardom began when Southampton secured his services from Celtic in 2015.

During Warnock’s tenure as manager at Crystal Palace in 2014, he attempted to sway the Eagles’ decision-makers into signing the talented defender.

In hindsight, Warnock reflects on his efforts to convince the club hierarchy at Selhurst Park to pursue Van Dijk, long before Liverpool sealed the deal for his signature.

“I said to Steve Parish [chariman], who’s still at Palace now, and the stats man that I want to sign [Virgil] Van Dijk for three million pounds,” said Warnock on William Hill and Footy Accumulators’ podcast, No Tippy Tappy Football.

“Parish, as with many of the other chairmen, rely on the stats man and he was saying that he didn’t think he was quick enough for the Premier League.

“I told them why he doesn’t look quick, he reads the game that well that he doesn’t have to break a sweat.

“We didn’t end up signing him and Southampton picked him up for four or five million and ended up getting 70-odd million for him when Liverpool signed him.

“I remember when we played Liverpool next, Van Dijk came up to me and said, ‘You nearly signed me!’ – he knew all about it?

“I said to him, ‘They told me you weren’t quick, you’re not really quick, are you?’ – and then I ran away from him!”

Van Dijk, who has led Liverpool to a Carabao Cup triumph this season, has racked up 45 appearances, scored four goals, and provided two assists in all competitions.

Read more: Liverpool secure qualification for 2024/25 Champions League after Tottenham loss

Inter Milan chief provides latest update on Nicolo Barella amid Liverpool transfer links

Michael Owen gives honest verdict on incoming Liverpool boss Arne Slot

Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone
For more news relating to Spurs, visit our sister site Spurs Latest Live.