Ranking Liverpool's signings from Southampton in the Premier League era

#1 Virgil van Dijk

Since his move from Southampton, Van Dijk has transformed Liverpool's defence

It was tricky to make the call as to who is Liverpool’s best ever signing from Southampton, but the truth is that without Sadio Mane, the Reds would still be a dynamic attacking outfit capable of scoring plenty of goals. Without Virgil van Dijk, meanwhile, would they really be as tough to break down at the back? In all honesty – judging on their defensive form prior to his 2018 arrival – the answer is probably not.

The Dutch centre-back had proven himself as one of the Premier League’s best defenders in two seasons at St. Mary’s, and tried unsuccessfully to force a move to Liverpool in the summer of 2017. That didn’t happen, but in January 2018, a £75 million transfer was agreed, breaking the world record fee for a defender in the process.

Many fans scoffed at the amount of money the Reds spent on him, but Van Dijk has already repaid the fee and then some. The Dutchman scored the winner on his debut – a 2-1 victory over Mersey rivals Everton in the FA Cup – and had an instant impact. Liverpool’s once flimsy defence was transformed; following his arrival they conceded just 10 Premier League goals, having let in 28 previously, and made it to the Champions League final.

2018-19 saw him at his imperious best, as Liverpool conceded just 22 league goals – the least of any Premier League side – and won the Champions League, with Van Dijk being named Man of the Match in the final in the process. This month he was voted 2nd in the Ballon d’Or award behind Lionel Messi and at the time of writing he’s widely recognised as the best defender on the planet. Almost two years on from his transfer, £75 million now feels like a steal.

About the author

Scott is a veteran MMA writer with over two decades of experience, including his ongoing tenure in Sportskeeda, which began seven years ago. He has written over 3000 pieces for the organization, while also covering football. Before joining Sportskeeda, Scott wrote articles for websites like The Oratory and Inside Pulse MMA.

Scott has a degree in history, which drives his research skills and helps him compile accurate information. His long stint in the field helps Scott provide a clear take on important topics, such as the criticism of promotions regarding fighter pay. While he feels fighters deserve a bigger revenue share, he doesn’t want MMA to suffer with purse-split issues.

Scott’s work has been previously reshared by the former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman. He uses credible sources, such as the UFC’s official website, during the writing process.

His dedication to MMA writing won him the Feature Writer of the Month award for Sportskeeda in November 2021.

Outside of work, Scott likes to go to the gym, walk his dog, and travel.

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Edited by A. Ayush Chatterjee