:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/36138268/185349190.0.jpg)
Liverpool officially have their first defensive signing of the summer transfer window, confirming this evening that they've agreed a deal with Southampton for the services of Croatian international Dejan Lovren. The versatile center-back passed a medical yesterday in Liverpool, and, in an interesting turn of events, announced his own transfer earlier in the day to Croatian press. That's probably not what the club had in mind for an official announcement, but however it was first confirmed, he's now a Liverpool player.
A prospect that, according to the player, was too good to pass up:
"It's a dream come true. I'm happy and glad to be here. I'm proud and can't wait to start. I know we have millions and millions of supporters - Liverpool is more than a club. After I played at Anfield last season, I said to myself: 'One day I hope I'll be able to play here for Liverpool'. The fans will know from the first minute that I'm a player that will give 100 per cent on the pitch."
There's sure to be plenty of talk about what the signing means for the futures of Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel, especially with the former having already been linked with a move away this summer, partially due to comments he's made about his difficulties last season. Lovren brings experience internationally and in the Premier League, and at least for the the present time, his signing gives the club one of the league's stronger central defensive contingents.
Welcome to him, and hopefully his Liverpool career proves successful for both him and the club.
**Addendum: Shortly after this went live, Brendan Rodgers confirmed that Lovren will join the squad on the US tour in the coming days.**
