After pictures leaked out yesterday showing Lazar Markovic conducting an interview in a Liverpool training top, there was little doubt that an official announcement from the club was coming just about any time now.
After weeks of speculation, the 20-year old has become Reds boss Brendan Rodgers fourth signing of the summer with the youngster agreeing to a long-term contract at Anfield on the back of a fee reported to be around £20mil. Markovic helped Benfica snatch a historic domestic treble last season and book a place in the Europa League final, but he’ll be plying his trade on Merseyside next season and looking to show off his considerable talents on Europe’s biggest stage when Liverpool return to Champions League action for the first time since 2009.
“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” Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers told the official website. “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.”
With star striker Luis Suarez jumping ship for Barcelona, it’s a well known fact that the Northern Irishman is looking for attacking recruits to beef up the squad — and in Markovic he’s getting just that. “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” continued Rodgers. “He is the sort of character who is hungry to get better and progress; this is what we look for in players.”
Welcome to the club, Lazar.
