Rumour Mill: Race for Virgil Van Dijk

Virgil Van Dijk, pictured in action against Aberdeen, is wanted by a host of clubs. Picture: Robert Perry

West Ham manager Sam Allardyce has joined the chase to land Virgil Van Dijk

West Ham boss Sam Allardyce has joined the chase to land Virgil Van Dijk. The English club’s interest comes after reports that Arsene Wenger is ready to bid £8 million for the player after glowing reports from Arsenal’s scouts following his displays in the Europa League. However their London rivals are ready to steal a march on them with a bid of their own.

Southampton, Sunderland and at least one Serie A side are also said to be interested. Celtic are said to be looking for at least £10 million for the Dutchman and are in no rush to sell their star defender. (Sun)

Alan Stubbs faces fight over goalkeeper Mark Oxley

Hibs manager may be facing a scramble to find a new goalkeeper after it was reported that parent club Hull City have recalled the player following a goalkeeping crisis of their own. Scotland cap Allan McGregor is crocked and his deputy Steve Harper tore a bicep in the 2-2 draw with Arsenal on Saturday. The injury could now make manager Steve Bruce recall Oxley, forcing the keeper headache to be passed on to Alan Stubbs at the worst possible time of the season. Bruce said: “We have got a goalkeeper at Hibernian so maybe on Monday we will probably have to call him back.” Hibs have Albanian kid Kleton Perntreou as back up, but the 19-year-old has yet to sample first-team action. (Daily Express)

Meanwhile, Alan Stubbs has apparently told Steve Bruce that he can forget about recalling Oxley as the Hibs head coach is confident the loan deal is watertight until the turn of the year. (Mail)

Callum McGregor calls for Celtic to work much harder in Premiership

Callum McGregor has urged Celtic to go on a winning streak - to restore their domestic dignity and European profile. The Parkhead kid confessed to feeling slightly embarrassed at sitting sixth in the Premiership table before the ruthless 5-0 weekend demolition of Ross County. He said: “We had a few meetings to look back over the Hamilton game which we lost and see where we could do things better. Players have opinions. It’s not just two or three talking, everyone has their say. Everyone knew what was expected of them and what’s expected in the weeks to come. The boys put it right against Ross County and now we want to go on a real run.” (Record)

News in brief:

• Neil Lennon is said to be keen on signing Gary Hooper on loan for new team Bolton. (Various)

• Michael Gardyne has insisted he didn’t go out of his way to injure Emilio Izaguirre following the defender being stretchered off after his challenge in Saturday’s game. (Sun)

• Former Stenhousemuir manager Martyn Corrigan is early favourite to become the new boss of Stirling Albion. (Sun)

• John Daly is happy to see Kris Boyd back on the score sheet, even if it means he has to remain on the bench. (Various)

• Furious Swansea boss Gary Monk has accused Stoke winger Victor Moses of cheating after he apparently dived to gain the controversial penalty decision by referee Michael Oliver that saw Stoke equalise. (Mail)

Rumour Mill: Race for Virgil Van Dijk | Mark Oxley