Virgil van Dijk offers verdict on Arne Slot becoming next Liverpool manager as 'talks underway'

Virgil van Dijk has praised Arne Slot's credentials after the Dutchman emerged as the leading candidate to take over as Liverpool boss. Slot is the new favorite to replace Jürgen Klopp after impressing at Feyenoord.

According to The Telegraph, Liverpool has opened talks with Feyenoord about appointing Slot and is growing 'increasingly confident' that he is the man to lead the new era at Anfield.

Speaking after Wednesday night's Merseyside derby defeat to Everton, Van Dijk was asked about the possibility of his countryman taking over this summer. He told Viaplay Sport: "I find it difficult to answer now. Of course, but I think Arne Slot is perhaps one of the better Dutch coaches at the moment.

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"I think the way he plays and the philosophy he has means he could be a Liverpool coach. Well, I think what I also read and hear is that it is far from over and we'll see and next year we'll focus on that. Yes, but just a little longer.”

Liverpool now has just four matches remaining of the Klopp era, starting at West Ham on Saturday. Should Slot arrive, he will look to bring assistant Sipke Hulshoff with him, reports the Daily Mail.

Hulshoff is also Ronald Koeman's No.2 with the Dutch national side and has worked with Van Dijk, as well as fellow Liverpool players Cody Gakpo and Ryan Gravenberch. The Reds' skipper has already sung the praises of Slot's trusted lieutenant.

Speaking after his appointment, Van Dijk told vi.nl: "I didn't know Sipke before this. You have to get to know each other. You see what his qualities are and I personally certainly like that. Hopefully he can continue that well. He is very clear and tactically strong. I like the moments when he leads a training session. I think I also speak for the group."

Hulshoff's contract with the Dutch FA expires after this summer's European Championships. It is unclear at this stage if he would stay on in a dual role, if he is to join Slot at Liverpool.

Liverpool.com says: Slot appears to be the man chosen to replace Klopp at Anfield and it will not be an easy challenge. He will fancy it though and has done some fine work in the Netherlands. He will likely keep his countryman as his captain, if he takes over, and Van Dijk will certainly aid his transition into the Liverpool dugout.