Premier League leaders Liverpool have confirmed a deal has been agreed to sign Red Bull Salzburg star Takumi Minamino on January 1, 2020.
Liverpool announced on Thursday that Minamino, 24, will move to Anfield when the winter transfer window opens next month after he passed his medical and finalised terms.
The Japan international—who has 11 goals in 22 international appearances—scored once and assisted another against Jurgen Klopp’s side, when Salzburg lost 4-3 at Anfield in the Champions League in October.
Minamino told Liverpool’s official website it was his “dream to become a Liverpool player” and feature in the Premier League, adding: “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.”
The Japan Times reported the winger has signed a four-and-a-half-year contract at Anfield, which will keep him on Merseyside until the summer of 2024, when Klopp’s recently announced deal is also due to expire.
It’s understood Liverpool triggered the £7.25 million ($9.5 million) release clause in his contract, which looks like a bargain price considering his output this season.
The new acquisition has scored nine goals and crafted 11 assists in 22 total appearances for Salzburg this season. That includes two goals and three assists in six Champions League outings, though Die Mozartstadter couldn’t pip Liverpool nor Napoli to a top-two place in Group E.
Minamino is the third player with Salzburg relations to sign for Liverpool since Klopp took over, with forward Sadio Mane and midfielder Naby Keita having each represented the Austrian outfit in the past.
