Former Liverpool striker Dirk Kuyt has told Sky Sports News that he believes fellow Dutchman Virgil van Dijk would be a great signing for the Reds.

The Southampton centre-back was keen to make the move to Anfield during the summer transfer window and even handed in a transfer request just days before the Premier League season, but the Merseyside outfit were forced to issue an official apology in June when they were accused of tapping the 26-year-old up.

The Netherlands international ended up staying at St Mary's after the south coast outfit said he wasn't for sale, and he has started their last six Premier League matches – including the 3-0 defeat against Liverpool on Saturday – having initially been forced to train with the U23s.

While the Dutch defender doesn't appear to be back to his best yet following an eight-month spell on the sidelines through injury, that hasn't stopped Kuyt coming out and saying he would improve a Reds defence that has come under scrutiny once again this term.

The retired 37-year-old told Sky Sports News: "I don't think it's strange for me to say he is a player who will suit Liverpool very well. He has the right mentality and he is a great defender.

"He could do a great job at Liverpool but it's not for me to say if he would be an improvement or not. That's up to the club."

Reports in The Mirror last week suggested Southampton value the 26-year-old at £70m, and while they would be lucky to get that much for the defender Liverpool will certainly have to spend big if they want to bring him to Anfield either in January or next summer.