Arsenal and Manchester City lead race for Southampton defender Virgil Van Dijk

Van Dijk has been out of action since January with a foot injury (Picture: Getty)

Arsenal are at the head of the queue along with Manchester City to sign Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk, according to the Star on Sunday.

Arsenal star pictured back in training in possible North London Derby boost

The Netherlands international has been a revelation on the south coast since his move from Celtic in August 2015.

Despite having been out of action since January with a foot injury, the 25-year-old is one of the most coveted players in the Premier League.

Pep Guardiola is searching for a long-term Vincent Kompany successor (Picture: Getty)

Arsene Wenger has recently switched to a three-man defence (Picture: Getty)

Van Dijk signed a five-year contract when he moved to Southampton for £13 million, and the Saints are hoping to make nearly three times that amount should they end up selling one of their prize assets in the summer.

The Gunners, who recently switched formations and are utilising a three-man defence, are said to be leading therace but Manchester City are also strong contenders.

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Pep Guardiola is eyeing up a long-term replacement for skipper Vincent Kompany and views Van Dijk as the perfect man to partner John Stones.