Southampton would be making a 'huge statement' by rejecting offers from the big Premier League clubs for Virgil van Dijk, according to Saints skipper Steven Davis.

The Dutchman has become a highly sought after talent, with the likes of Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool all reportedly keen on acquiring his services.

The Saints are said to be holding out for a huge offer in the region of £50m to £70m pound, and Davis believes the club could gain a lot of respect by holding on to the 25-year old.

"It would be a huge statement," Davis told the Southampton Daily Echo. "We all know the qualities that he's got.

"He's at an age where he's only getting better.

"We know there's teams looking at him, such is his quality, but hopefully we can keep hold of him and go on and have a strong season."

"He's a top quality player and hopefully we'll do our best to try and keep hold of him."