Liverpool has confirmed they will sign Red Bull Salzburg winger, Takumi Minamino when the transfer window reopens on January 1st.
Minamino, the Japan international has signed a four-and-a-half-year deal until summer 2024 in Liverpool. Most importantly, the winger is thought to have a release clause of £7.25m.
The 24-year-old has scored nine goals and provided 11 assists in 22 appearances for the Austrian side this season.
Minamino expressed his happiness to sign in Liverpool. He said, “It has been a dream, my dream to become a Liverpool player.”
“To play in the Premier League was one of my targets. I think this is the top class league in the world. I was thinking if my career as a footballer progressed smoothly, someday, I would be able to play in the Premier League.”
“But I never thought I would be able to play in this team.’
‘And I’m really happy about it. I’m looking forward to it.”
Minamino played in both of his side’s Champions League group games against the Reds this season. He scored in the 4-3 defeat at Anfield in October.
Despite that, he would be eligible to play for the European champions in the knockout stages of the tournament following a rule change by Uefa last year.
“From those games, I learned this team has such a high level of technique and intensity.” He said.
“Their football is of such a high level and I did feel that they were the champions of the Champions League. Feeling that, in other words, makes me feel even happier that I can play in this team, I’m really happy to be part of that team.”
“My target is to win the Premier League and the Champions League and to make good contributions to the team.”
Besides, Jurgen Klopp adds on it and says, the fans are aware of what to expect from Minamino having seen him face the Reds recently.
“Takumi is a very quick and clever player. He finds space between the lines. He is brave with the ball and also, without the ball. As a result, he is a proper team player. Additionally, he makes the best of himself for the benefit of others.”
“His Champions League experience is a big bonus. Moreover, coming from the club and organization he does, we know he will be well-coached, used to an elite environment and have all the right experiences.”