"I think he is the best defender" - Reported Liverpool target praises Virgil van Dijk

Borussia Dortmund forward and reported Liverpool target Erling Haaland has recently been praising Reds centre-back Virgil van Dijk.

The 21-year-old believes that the Dutchman is the best defender in the world. Haaland implied that Van Dijk's physical presence gives him an edge over other centre-backs.

As quoted by Anfield Watch's Twitter account, the forward told ESPN the following: “You know how tall he is, how strong he is and how fast he is, and also the timing is crazy. I don't think I won one duel against him because he's a physical monster. I do not really fear anyone, I think he is the best defender. “He is fast, strong and 'bad' smart, and there are three important things you must have. I have played against him twice, I have said that he is the best I have met."

Anfield Watch Verdict

We completely agree with Haaland's take on Van Dijk. The 30-year-old is an exceptional footballer.

Liverpool signed Van Dijk from Southampton for a transfer fee of €84.65 million back in January 2018.

Since then, the Dutchman has made 156 appearances for the club's first-team. Van Dijk has helped Liverpool win the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup and Premier League title.

The centre-back was also named the runner-up for the 2019 Ballon d'Or. The aforementioned figures and achievements highlight that Van Dijk has been a very good player for the Reds.

The defender's current contract expires in the summer of 2025, which means that the Anfield faithful will get to watch him represent the club for a bit longer.