It’s a move that’s been talked about all summer, but late yesterday Liverpool completed the signing of Arsenal midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain on a five year deal after he rejected a new deal with the Gunners and turned down a move to Premier League rivals Chelsea.
“I remember the first time I saw him play live – it was at Dortmund in 2014 and he came on as a sub that day and made a big impact,” explained Reds boss Jurgen Klopp, confirming that he’s been tracking him for quite some time. “He stood out immediately because of his pace and skills and his attitude in such a big game for a young player; I remember him chasing back to make a brilliant challenge on Mkhitaryan in the box to save a certain goal,” continued the German manager, obviously impressed. “We won that game but lost the return match at Arsenal when he started and played well, I think he hit the post. Since then I have followed him and when I heard it may be possible to sign him I didn’t need to think twice.”
Competition for places in the middle of the park is going to be fierce this season and will only get tougher at Liverpool next year when RB Leipzig midfielder Naby Keita officially makes the move to Anfield. With that being said, Oxlade-Chamberlain sounds like he’s up for the challenge — he didn’t move on from Arsenal to play a bit part.
“I’m currently away with England, so I’m at St George’s Park. Firstly, I’m delighted to have signed for Liverpool and a big thank-you to everyone here at the FA that has made this possible, using the facilities. It has been a massive help,” said the 24-year old in a statement. “I’m not going to say too much today; I’m here with England and we’ve got two big games coming up, so I want to focus on them,” explained Oxlade-Chamberlain. “But I can’t wait to get to Melwood and you’ll hear first from me on LFCTV.”
