English Premier League side, Liverpool have confirmed the signing of midfielder, Naby Keita from Bundesliga outfit RB Leipzig for a club record fee.
The Reds have agreed to pay the sum of £48million, which represents the 22-year-old’s release clause at Leipzig, plus a premium, as per the BBC.
“Liverpool Football Club can confirm they have reached an agreement with RB Leipzig for the future transfer of Naby Keita,” a statement on the club’s official website read.
“The Reds have agreed a deal with the German club and the midfielder that will see the 22-year-old move to Anfield on July 1, 2018 following the conclusion of the current season,” it concluded.
Jurgen Klopp has been a long term admirer of the talented midfielder, and made him his main target this summer but Leipzig remained steadfast in their resolve that Keita won’t be leaving this summer.
“I am delighted that an agreement has been reached which will allow me to join Liverpool Football Club next summer, when I will become part of a project that excites me greatly,” Keita said, according to the club.
“My commitment to RB Leipzig remains absolute for the remainder of my time at the club. I have given my all every time I have worn the shirt – that will be the case until the final whistle, in my final appearance.
“Having my future resolved means I can now focus on helping RB Leipzig achieve great things this season. Until I join my new club, next summer, I will remain an interested supporter from a distance.”
Keita was part of the Leipzig side that shocked everyone to finish second in the Bundesliga last season, scoring eight goals, and assisting a further seven in 31 league matches.
