ROBBIE FOWLER believes Simon Mignolet’s signing represents a “fantastic deal” for Liverpool.

The Sunderland goalkeeper completed a £9m switch to Anfield earlier this week, becoming the Reds’ fourth signing of the summer.

He arrives on the back of three stellar seasons on Wearside, where he made 101 appearances after joining from Sint-Truiden in 2010.

And Fowler, currently in the Far East promoting Liverpool’s forthcoming pre-season tour, says the 24-year-old can go on to become a shrewd acquisition.

“I think he was a great keeper last year,” he said. “You’d have to look at his nationality as well. The influx of Belgian players in the top leagues and top teams is frightening. I think it’s a fantastic deal. He performed well last year in the Premier League, made some great saves and obviously he wants to be the Belgian No.1 and playing in the Premier League is certainly going to stabilise that.”

Liverpool have been busy in the transfer market this summer, signing no fewer than four players already. And Fowler has been suitably impressed.

“I think the signing of Kolo Toure was a very good one,” he said.

“Obviously Jamie Carragher has retired now and, sadly, I don’t think you could ever replace Jamie. He’s that good.

“But Kolo Toure comes in and he adds plenty of experience, which is what Carra had.

“As for the two Spanish boys, Luis Alberto and Iago Aspas, I think they’re very classic players, technically very, very good.

“Coming to the Premier League, it will be tough but I’m sure Brendan and the rest of the staff have worked on that, what type of players they are.

“It’s exciting times for Liverpool. A mixture of youth and experience. I think the future looks very, very good for Liverpool.”

Fowler also commented on the future of Luis Suarez, who has been repeatedly linked with a move away from Anfield. The former marksman believes the Uruguayan would be a massive loss to Brendan Rodgers’ squad, but says he is hopeful the Reds can fend off interest from Real Madrid.

“I don’t think there’s ever a good time to sell players to be honest,” he said. “Suarez is a phenomenal player and I’ve said many times that any team with him in is a strong one.

“What I’ll say is that he’s a great player and will score goals but he’s not the only player at Liverpool.

“There are many players who will fight for a spot and they all want to win.”