Jurgen Klopp told Virgil van Dijk he would become a Liverpool legend if he joined the Reds over Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester City, according to Danny Murphy.
A number of Premier League clubs wanted to sign Van Dijk from Southampton in 2015 but Liverpool won the race, bringing the Dutchman to Anfield in a deal worth £75million.
Van Dijk has since developed into one of Liverpool’s most important players, playing a starring role for the club this season as they impress both domestically and in Europe.
Murphy has credited Klopp for Liverpool signing Van Dijk, telling the Daily Mail: ‘When Virgil van Dijk signed for Liverpool, he was also wanted by Chelsea, Man City and Arsenal.
‘Liverpool is a wonderful club but Chelsea had won the league more recently and City win things nearly every season.
‘So why did Van Dijk choose Liverpool? One reason: Jurgen Klopp. He connected with Van Dijk.
‘He told him that while he would probably win things with City or Chelsea, if he managed to do so with Liverpool he would become a legend. He would be remembered forever.
‘Klopp convinced Van Dijk not only that he was the manager he wanted to play under but also that Liverpool was the right club.’
Van Dijk helped Liverpool clinch a crucial 2-1 victory over Tottenham on Sunday as Klopp’s side returned to the top of the Premier League.
Spurs forward Lucas Moura levelled for the visitors after Roberto Firmino’s first-half header but an injury-time own goal from Toby Alderweireld gave the hosts the three points.
Speaking after the crucial win, Van Dijk said: ‘Tottenham are a very good side with great players who like to have the ball.
‘We tried to put them under pressure which we did in the first half but in the second half they changed it up a bit.
‘It was a bit difficult for us but in the end we got the three points and that’s all that matters.’
On the Premier League title race, Van Dijk added: ‘When these moments come we never give up.
‘We are going to try and win every game. It’s going to be tough but let’s enjoy it and keep going.’
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