Liverpool sign £25m Lallana
Liverpool have signed Southampton captain Adam Lallana on a five-year contract.
While no fee was mentioned by either club, the England midfielder, who was on national duty at the World Cup in Brazil, reportedly cost the Reds £25 million ($53.4m).
The playmaker arrives at Anfield as Brendan Rodgers' second confirmed signing for the new season after former Saints' teammate Rickie Lambert.
Lallana will don the No.20 shirt.
Liverpool also have an agreement in place with Bayer Leverkusen for the signing of defensive midfielder Emre Can.
Fits right in
Speaking to Liverpool's official website, Rodgers, who guided Liverpool to second in the English Premier League last season, said: "We are delighted to have secured the services of one of the Premier League's top talents in signing Adam Lallana.
"He is an exceptional young man and someone who has a love for the game - and, most importantly, a desire to progress and improve.
"Adam is motivated by being the best he can be and being part of something special. We believe he fits right in with what we are trying to do at Liverpool."
New boy Lallana added: "I'm so excited for the next chapter of my career, coming to a special club like Liverpool. I'm quite humbled and I just can't wait to get started.
"I hope I can add something to the team and hopefully we can win trophies while I'm here, because that's why I'm here - for success."
Changes
The sale of Lallana continues a summer of massive change at Southampton, who have recently installed Ronald Koeman as their new manager.
Former boss Mauricio Pochettino left to join Tottenham while left-back Luke Shaw was sold to Manchester United.
Source: Liverpool FC official website, AFP
Get The New Paper on your phone with the free TNP app. Download from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store now
