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Lovren signs for Liverpool

SoccerNews in English Premier League 27 Jul 2014

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Dejan Lovren has finally completed his protracted move from Southampton to Liverpool, putting pen to paper on a long-term deal at Anfield.

Croatia international Lovren had been linked with a switch to the Premier League runners-up since the end of last season, and made no secret of his desire to leave St Mary’s Stadium.

Earlier this month, the 25-year-old told Sportske Novosti in his homeland that his “head is already at Liverpool”, while claiming Southampton had rejected a £20million bid for his services.

However, Lovren has now got his wish after a breakthrough in negotiations between the clubs was apparently made over the weekend and he will join up with Brendan Rodgers’ squad on their pre-season tour of the United States.

A statement from the Anfield club on Sunday read: “Liverpool Football Club are delighted to announce the signing of defender Dejan Lovren from Southampton.

“The 25-year-old Croatian international today put pen to paper on a long-term deal with the Reds after completing his medical.”

Lovren added: “It’s a dream come true. I’m happy and glad to be here. I’m proud and can’t wait to start.

“I know we have millions and millions of supporters – Liverpool is more than a club.

“After I played at Anfield last season, I said to myself: ‘One day I hope I’ll be able to play here for Liverpool’.

“The fans will know from the first minute that I’m a player that will give 100 per cent on the pitch.”

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers also expressed delight at the transfer.

“This is a very important signing for us and I’m delighted it’s completed so Dejan can join up with us on our US tour,” said Rodgers.

“He is a commanding and powerful presence and clearly has leadership skills, which is important; he fits the profile of player we are looking for.

“He is still relatively young, so his peak years are ahead of him and I believe he will improve and progress even further with us.”

Lovren joined Southampton from Lyon in June last year, and enjoyed an impressive first campaign in the Premier League.

A regular for his country, the centre-back started all three of Croatia’s games at the World Cup in Brazil.

He becomes the third player to make the switch from Southampton to Liverpool this close-season, following Rickie Lambert and Adam Lallana to Merseyside.

While not disclosing the exact figures involved in Lovren’s transfer, Southampton announced on their website that they had received a “significant fee” from Liverpool.

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