Lu has got right stuff for Reds, says Bren
BRENDAN RODGERS can’t wait to start working with Luis Alberto after sealing a £ 7million swoop for the Spanish star.
The 20- year- old attacking midfielder penned a £ 70,000- a- week, four- year deal to join Liverpool from Sevilla after passing a medical at the Reds’ Melwood training base.
The move is subject to international clearance, but Rodgers is delighted with his latest piece of summer business as he lines up a £ 9m raid for in- demand Sunderland keeper Simon Mignolet. The Kop boss welcomes his squad back for pre- season early next month, and he said: “We’re all delighted that Luis has decided to join us.
“He has the correct footballing profile and the mentality to be a Liverpool player.
“I look forward to working with him to develop his talent. He joins a group of young exciting players at our club.”
Spanish Under- 21 international Alberto spent last season on loan at Barcelona B, scoring 11 goals in 38 games.
Mistakes
He becomes the Reds’ third summer signing after the captures of Kolo Toure and Iago Aspas.
Alberto said: “It’s a big step for me, but I’m looking forward to getting started.”
Martin Skrtel is set to stay at Anfield as Napoli can’t afford him.
The Italian side are keen on the Slovakian defender, with new boss Rafa Benitez the man who brought him to England in 2008.
Skrtel, 28, was not happy at Liverpool last season as manager Rodgers grew frustrated at his mistakes and dropped him to the bench.
The defender’s agent was due to fly into Liverpool this week but failed to show up, sparking more talk that he was off.
But agent Karol Csonto moved to ease those fears. He said: “Napoli? I think they haven’t the financial possibilities to take him.
“Liverpool has not decided a price because they don’t intend to sell the player.
“Anyway, I don’t think that Napoli can afford his wage.”
Rodgers’ pursuit of Sporting Lisbon winger Diego Capel, 25, has received a big boost as the other interested party, Atletico Madrid, ruled themselves out.
Spaniard Capel has been highlighted as the man who could provide the assists for the Reds’ new striker Aspas, who is expected to complete his transfer this week.