Liverpool have officially announced the signing of Benfica forward Lazar Markovic for a transfer fee believed to be in the region of £20 million.
The 20-year-old Serbian, who had earlier already confirmed the move to Liverpool on his official Facebook account, has become the Reds' fourth signing after penning a "long-term" deal at Anfield.
"Liverpool FC are delighted to announce the signing of 20-year-old Serbia international Lazar Markovic from Portuguese side Benfica," read a statement on the club's official website.
For a full photo gallery from Lazar Markovic's first day at #LFC, click here - http://t.co/zCMAPaVg5s #LazarLFC pic.twitter.com/pa2ZwW7HJ9
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) July 15, 2014
Markovic expressed his delight at having signed for the Merseyside club.
"I am very happy that I have joined such a great club. I hope that I will fulfil the expectations of the supporters, coaches, players, and all connected to the club," Markovic said. "I have seen what the players are like, I have seen what the supporters are like, and I cannot wait to start playing here."
Now that he has completed his move to Anfield, the youngster is confident Liverpool will win the Premier League title next season.
"I went to Partizan and won the title, I went to Benfica and won the title. Now I have joined Liverpool and want to win the title, 100 percent," he added.
Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers, who guided the Reds to a second place finish in the Premier League last season and has already strengthened the forward and midfield department with the signings of Rickie Lambert, Adam Lallana and Emre Can, feels the addition of Markovic will further bolster their attack, especially following the recent departure of Luis Suarez to Barcelona.
"This is an exciting signing for us and one that improves our squad, in terms of attacking options, for the coming season," Rodgers said. "He was hugely impressive for Benfica last season and has proved he has the ability to produce the goods in European competition as well, which will be important for us."
The former Swansea boss believes Markovic's versatility will prove to be very useful for Liverpool next season.
"Lazar is flexible to play a number of positions, but I like the way he attacks games and is always positive and looking to make something happen. He will fit in with the way we play at Liverpool.
Also, the Northern Irishman feels that Liverpool are very lucky to get such a talent at such a young age.
"Getting him at such a young age is also very pleasing for us, because we will be able to work with him to develop his talent within our group and improve him even further. He is the sort of character who is hungry to get better and progress; this is what we look for in players," he added.
