Liverpool have officially announced the signing of Southampton defender Dejan Lovren for a reported £20 million.
The Croatian centre-back, who has become the third player to join the Reds from the Saints, after Rickie Lambert and Adam Lallana, has penned a long-term contract after successfully completing a medical at Anfield.
"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," read a statement on the club's official website.
Lovren, who was very impressive at Southampton last season, expressed his delight at having signed for the Reds.
"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," the Croatian said.
"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 percent on the pitch."
The Merseyside club had been looking to strengthen their defence, having conceded 50 goals in the Premier League last season. And, Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers, who has already signed four players this summer, is confident that the addition of Lovren will prove to be very beneficial for the Reds.
"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," Rodgers told Liverpool's official website. "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."
Also, the Northern Irishman feels that Lovren has a lot of potential to mature into an even better defender, due to him being only 25 years of age.
"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. I'm looking forward to him arriving and working with us as we continue our preparations for the new season," added the former Swansea boss.
