---
title: "Van Dijk hails Liverpool target De Ligt"
canonical: "https://readliverpoolfc.com/news/van-dijk-hails-liverpool-target-de-ligt/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Elliott Cuff"
section: "Liverpool News"
published: "2019-03-22T20:43:36Z"
modified: "2019-03-22T20:43:37Z"
---

# Van Dijk hails Liverpool target De Ligt

Virgil van Dijk has praised Liverpool linked centre-back Matthijs de Ligt, calling him an “excellent defender”.

The Netherlands international defender is regarded as one of the most promising starlets in world football, and at just 19-years old, is a highly coveted player.

![David Ramos/Getty Images Sport](https://cdn.readeverything.co/readliverpoolfc/2019/03/1133991310.jpg)

Less than two weeks ago, De Ligt admitted that he’d be open to a potential move to Liverpool to reunite with his international defensive partner. As reported by the Liverpool Echo, De Ligt said:

> Virgil is a player who has experience in the top leagues.
>
> Of course, you would want to learn from him. It’s very helpful playing alongside him in the Dutch team.
>
> It could happen (De Ligt joining him at Anfield). He plays for Liverpool, a good club, but I’m not focused on them.
>
> I focus on Ajax and then I’ll see where I end up.

Now Van Dijk has spoken out about De Ligt, labelling him an excellent defender while claiming he enjoys playing alongside him. [As reported by the Echo](https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/liverpools-virgil-van-dijk-keeps-16016326), Van Dijk said of De Ligt:

> He’s obviously an excellent defender, that’s clear.
>
> He can still improve a lot and he realises that, but playing like he does at that age is fantastic and I’m really happy to play besides him.