The Merseyside outfit attempted to sign the Southampton defender last summer but had to publicly back down after Saints accused them of making an illegal approach.

Van Dijk was outcasted at Southampton as a result after his attempts to swap the south coast for Liverpool fell through.

But Kuyt reckons the 26-year-old has the right qualities to make it at Anfield should Liverpool renew their interest in January.

Kuyt told Sky Sports: "I know Virgil. I didn't play with him in the national team but he's a great player. 

“We'll see how things will go in the winter break or at the end of the season.

"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."

Van Dijk is under contract with Liverpool until 2022 but the Reds are thought to be monitoring his progress still and could make their move once again in the winter window.

Liverpool will likely face competition from Manchester City should they pursue his signature though.

Jurgen Klopp was asked last week about interest in the Netherlands international but the German remained tight-lipped.

“You really expect an answer? What happened in the summer?" he said.

“I have nothing to say about that.”