Gary Kirsten would be a fantastic signing for anybody Peter Moores

The 36-year-old is a leading candidate to replace Murray Goodwin, who looks set to leave Hove after three seasons.

Kirsten has 6,866 runs from 95 Tests, including 19 centuries, and remains a key member of the South African side.

"There are a few names in the hat - one of them is Gary Kirsten. He's definitely our sort of cricketer," said Director of Cricket Peter Moores.

If a deal is agreed, Kirsten would be Sussex's second major signing since their 2003 title win following the arrival of former Surrey and England batsman Ian Ward.

But the 36-year-old is attracting interest from a number of other counties, including Nottinghamshire.

He is renowned for his sound technique and batted for 14 and a half hours to make 275 and save South Africa from defeat against England in Durban four years ago - the second longest innings in Test history.

Sussex's other overseas slot will be filled by Pakistani leg-spinner Mushtaq Ahmed.

Mushtaq took 103 first-class wickets during the 2003 campaign and has signed a new two-year contract.