Liverpool have abandoned their hopes of signing Virgil van Dijk and apologised to Southampton for "any misunderstanding" over their interest.
Press Association Sport reports that Saints had not received any contact from the Reds regarding their defender, yet the Dutch defender apparently indicated an eagerness to become the latest player to swap St Mary's for Anfield.
Jurgen Klopp is reported to have made Van Dijk his top target, with the chance to work with the Liverpool boss to have played a significant role in the player's decision -- information that did not sit well with Southampton.
Saints are reported to have asked the Premier League on Tuesday to investigate an alleged illegal approach, which has been followed by Liverpool announcing the end of their pursuit.