Liverpool target Virgil van Dijk has not yet handed in a transfer request in his efforts to force a move away form Southampton, according to the Irish Independent.
The Dutchman has not featured for the Saints in pre-season after informing new manager Mauricio Pellegrino of his desire to move to Anfield.
Liverpool, though, are reluctant to make a fresh bid after being reported for an illegal approach earlier this summer.
The onus, then, is on Van Dijk to open the door for a move, but it is understood that he has only asked to leave verbally rather than submitting a formal request.
Nonetheless, relations between the player and the club remain ‘tense’ as he continues to train away from the rest of the squad.
The 26-year old is reportedly determined to join Liverpool but Southampton are still refusing to sell their star man.
Chelsea also entered the race for his signature this week, and a bid from the Premier League champions could prompt them to change their stance.
Liverpool do not appear to have identified an alternative, with Jurgen Klopp seemingly biding his time.
The Reds have endured a frustrating summer transfer window amid long-standing, and as yet unsuccessful, pursuits of Van Dijk and Naby Keita.
