Liverpool sign Dejan Lovren

Liverpool have confirmed the signing of Southampton defender Dejan Lovren.

The Croatian international joins the Reds on what has been described as a "long-term deal" by the club, and the former Saints star expressed his delight at joining the five-time European Cup winners.

He told the club's official website: "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% on the pitch."

Manager Brendan Rodgers hailed the signing as "very important" for the club's aspirations this term.

Speaking on the club's tour of the United States, the Northern Irishman said: "This is a very important signing for us and I'm delighted it's completed so Dejan can join up with us on our US tour.

"He is a commanding and powerful presence and clearly has leadership skills, which is important; he fits the profile of player we are looking for.

"He is still relatively young, so his peak years are ahead of him and I believe he will improve and progress even further with us."

Lovren becomes the Reds' fifth signing of the summer following deals for Emre Can, Lazar Markovic, Adam Lallana and Rickie Lambert.