Liverpool signs Mane from Southampton to long-term deal
Forward Sadio Mane completed a reported £30-million move to Liverpool from Southampton on Tuesday, signing a long-term contract with the Reds after agreeing to terms with the Anfield outfit.
It's a done deal - #SadioSigns! ✍ pic.twitter.com/ptQvxlrig2
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) June 28, 2016
Mane is Liverpool's third-most expensive transfer behind strikers Andy Carroll (£35 million) and Christian Benteke (£32.5 million).
He spent two successful seasons at Southampton, where he scored 25 goals in 75 appearances. He developed a reputation for his pace and ability to run at defenders, and also scored the fastest hat-trick in Premier League history during the 2014-15 season, netting three goals against Aston Villa in just two minutes and 56 seconds.
Mane said he became convinced of the Liverpool project once manager Jurgen Klopp made the call to the Senegalese forward.
"I knew Liverpool were interested in me, I had some (other) opportunities, but I think for me this is the right club, the right coach, and the right moment to change," the 24-year-old told Liverpool's official website. "I am very happy to be a part of Liverpool Football Club."
Mane adds to an already crowded attacking unit with Benteke, Roberto Firmino, Philippe Coutinho, Daniel Sturridge, Danny Ings, Divock Origi, and Adam Lallana all available.
Southampton, meanwhile, made a pre-emptive move to cover for Mane, bringing in explosive winger Nathan Redmond from Norwich City last week.