Hamburg are stepping up their pursuit of Liverpool attacker Dirk Kuyt.

Though his £80,000-a-week wages would present a stumbling block to Hamburg, the Bundesliga club are exploring ways of putting together an acceptable financial package and have been in contact with the Holland forward's agent Rob Jansen.

Hamburg chief Frank Arnesen told the Daily Mail: "Kuyt is still very fit and strong and still has a lot to offer.

"He is a big-hearted player with a great spirit, and there is no doubt he can give a great deal to whichever club he plays for. He is an excellent team player, very impressive all round, so we will see what happens."