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Virgil van Dijk's response has sent social media into a frenzy(Image: Men In Blazers/YouTube)

Liverpool supporters are convinced that Virgil van Dijk deliberately bit his tongue to avoid naming Alexander Isak when asked who the toughest striker he faced last season was.

The Reds have also signed centre back Giovanni Leoni, while a move for Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi could be on the cards too.

Van Dijk acknowledged that it will take time for the reorganised backline to gel, but emphasised that success will rely on Liverpool "defending as a unit" rather than depending solely on the back four.

The conversation then turned to forwards who could cause trouble this season, and Van Dijk was asked to name the hardest striker he faced last year.

I'll have to come back to you," he told Men in Blazers, before adding a playful question: "Who did you want me to say?"

That subtle reply quickly went viral, with many fans certain he was hinting at Newcastle striker Isak, who has been heavily linked with a summer move to Anfield.

"We all know he wanted to say Isak...

Respect big man," commented one fan.

Article continues belowIsak and Van Dijk could soon be team-mates(Image: Getty Images)

Another tweeted: "Van Dijk thinking of Isak and not being sure whether he can say it haha." A third added: "He definitely wanted to name Isak there, but knew it would cause problems."

The Isak transfer saga has dominated the Premier League this summer, pitting Liverpool's ambitions against Newcastle's resolve.

Liverpool are still circling, Isak remains in self-imposed exile, and Newcastle insist on their valuation - a tense standoff that may ultimately hinge on who blinks first.


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