The winner of the 2007 Ballon d'Or believes Champions League-winning hero Virgil van Dijk should win the next honour.

Kaka played a crucial role in AC Milan's victory over Liverpool in the 2007 Champions League final before winning the gong.

"We will see what happens in the future. Would I give the Ballon d'Or to Virgil van Dijk? I had some discussions talking about it with friends and with my brother, and the name we chose is really his," the Brazilian told Sky Italia.

"He had a great season in the Premier League and won the Champions League playing in a crazy way.

"We'll see what the judges will decide, but it's time to reward a defender."