By Chris Rowland.

Liverpool today confirmed the transfer of Adam Lallana from Southampton on a long-term deal. He will wear squad number 20. The club is understood to have agreed to pay Saints £23 million with another £2 million in add-ons.

After signing, the midfielder said:

“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.

“Hopefully I can settle in quickly, and I will give it my best throughout the whole time I’m here. 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.”

“I’m so excited for the next chapter of my career, coming to a special club like Liverpool”.

“Last season, deep down, I was thinking: hopefully one day I’ll be able to play in that team. That dream is reality now.”

Brendan Rodgers believes Lallana will prove a perfect fit into his Liverpool squad:

“We are delighted to have secured the services of one of the Premier League’s top talents,” the boss told Liverpoolfc.com at Melwood.

“What is apparent about Adam is that his character is on a par with his talent.

“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.

“We have seen, over the past two seasons in the Barclays Premier League, he has a tactical awareness to adapt to what is required of him and to put the team above his personal ambitions.

“He has leadership skills and personal qualities that make him a special commodity and I am delighted we have acted decisively to make sure he is wearing a Liverpool shirt next season.

“Adam is aware there will be great competition for places at this club and he is hungry to improve further. We are confident he will fit perfectly with the culture we have at Liverpool.

“I’m excited about working with Adam and helping him to progress even further.”

So here’s some information on our new arrival. The 26 year old St.Albans born attacking midfielder began his career at Bournemouth where he was a member of the Centre of Excellence, before moving to Southampton’s Academy in 2000, turning pro in 2006. Southampton paid £3,000 compensation to Bournemouth with further payments of £5,000 and £10,000 when he signed scholarship and professional contracts respectively. Bournemouth reportedly have a 25% sell-on clause when Lallana is sold.

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