Thursday, 28th August, 2014
Sunderland have stepped up their interest in Celtic defender Virgil van Dijk by lodging an official bid with the Scottish champions.
The Black Cats are keen to sign the Dutch defender and believe Celtic's failure to qualify for the Champions League group stage has opened the door for a successful raid on Celtic Park.
According to Voetbal International, Sunderland have now slapped in an official bid for Van Dijk, although it remains to be seen if the sum is substantial enough for Celtic to accept.
Sunderland are not alone in their admiration of Van Dijk however.
There is also interest in the Dutchman from Bundesliga side Hamburg and Premier League outfit Swansea City.
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Van Dijk himself has not ruled out leaving Celtic before the transfer window closes on Monday evening.
Speaking after the Bhoys' elimination from the Champions League at the hands of Maribor earlier this week, he told Dutch broadcaster NOS: "We'll see what happens.
"The transfer market is open until Sunday night."
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