Virgil van Dijk has become the first Liverpool player to react to reports linking Arne Slot with a stunning move to Anfield.

Slot has reportedly become Liverpool's top managerial candidate to replace Jurgen Klopp at the end of the season.

The club have opened talks with the Feyenoord boss over taking charge of the Premier League side for the 2024/25 campaign.

Slot's fellow countryman Van Dijk has given his seal of approval to the potential appointment, having showered him with glowing praise.

Speaking after his side's crushing 2-0 defeat to Everton, the Liverpool captain said: "I think Slot is one of the better Dutch coaches at the moment.

"With the way he plays and the philosophy he has, he can be a Liverpool coach. But I read and hear that it is far from complete. We shall see. We will focus on that next season, but that is still a long way off."

Slot has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Klopp after seemingly failing in their pursuit of Xabi Alonso and Ruben Amorim.

The 45-year-old Dutch gaffer began his managerial career at Cambuur before moving to AZ Alkmaar.

He was appointed Feyenoord manager in July 2021 and helped them win the Dutch league title in the 2022/23 season.