Southampton are preparing for life without Virgil van Dijk.

The Dutch defender was left off the Saints' pre-season tour of France, with a move to Liverpool now believed to be imminent.

According to the Daily Mail, Lazio defender Wesley Hoedt has been identified as a suitable replacement for van Dijk.

The 23-year old, who is also a Dutch international, made 26 appearances across all competitions for the Rome club last season.

Middlesbrough, Everton and Leicester have also considered making a move for the former AZ Alkmaar defender.