According to reports, Liverpool were close to signing Virgil van Dijk from Southampton for £50 million before the Saints accused them of tapping up the player.
The Reds are still attempting to sign the Dutchman who is reported to be training on his own in order to force through a transfer.
vanDijk established himself as arguably one of the best defenders in the Premier League last season and attracted the interest of the likes of Liverpool and Chelsea.
Reds boss Jurgen Klopp is determined to bolster his defence for the Champions League and to challenge for major silverware this season.
The Merseyside clubs defensive problems were also made visible last week as they started the new season on a disappointing note by drawing 3-3 against Watford.
It remains to be seen if van Dijk ends up departing St Mary’s but should it happen, it will not be cheaply.