Nathaniel Clyne has become Liverpool’s sixth signing of a hectic summer after completing a £12.5m move from Southampton.
The England international signed a long-term contract at Anfield on Wednesday after a concerted effort by Liverpool to land Brendan Rodgers’ first choice for their problematic right-back position. Clyne, who started his career at Crystal Palace before going on to make 94 appearances for Southampton, passed a medical on Monday and becomes the fourth player to move from St Mary’s Stadium to Anfield in the past year.
“I’m delighted and it’s a dream move for me to come here and play for such a big club with all of its history. I can’t wait to get started,” Clyne told Liverpool’s website.
“As soon as Liverpool showed their interest in me, I was happy and just wanted the deal to go through.
“The gaffer has shown a lot of interest in me and this is a place where I can improve as a player, I think. It’s definitely a good opportunity to come here and try to fulfil my potential.
“I’ve played at Anfield before and know what the atmosphere is all about. It’s a great atmosphere and will make me rise to the challenge. I’m really looking forward to it and hopefully it can push me on to putting on good performances.”
Clyne had only 12 months remaining on his Southampton contract but the south coast club rejected Liverpool’s opening offer of £10m, insisting on £15m, before a compromise fee was agreed.
The 24-year-old follows James Milner, Danny Ings, Adam Bogdan, Joe Gomez and Roberto Firmino as Liverpool’s summer recruits so far and the club remain keen on the Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke. However, there has been no breakthrough in a move for the Belgium international as yet with his £32.5m release clause proving prohibitive.
Clyne brings Premier League experience, pace and attacking instincts to a Liverpool side that also lacked the quality of crossing and tackling the full-back gave to Southampton last season. Rodgers had identified Clyne as his preferred choice for right-back with Glen Johnson departing on a free transfer and Jon Flanagan beset by injuries.
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