Liverpool have confirmed the capture of Ajax forward Ryan Babel on a five-year deal.
The 20-year-old Holland international starred in this summer's European Under-21 Championships in his homeland. He was unveiled alongside midfielder Yossi Benayoun on Merseyside today.
Babel can play as a striker or wide midfielder on either flank and will wear the number 19 shirt for the Reds.
Speaking to the club's website liverpoolfc.tv, the Dutchman claimed he found it easy to decide on the move despite reputed interest earlier in the summer from Arsenal.
‘I was in Aruba at the end of last week when I was told to start thinking about Liverpool because a move could happen,’ Babel said.
‘I have met Rafael Benitez and my conversation with him was the moment I knew the deal would get done.
‘He is like the ideal father-in-law. He has a lot of football know-how and he told me that I would be challenging with six other players for four positions. I have a good feeling about things.
‘I met (Liverpool striker) Dirk Kuyt at training, who I knew from the national team. At that moment he did not feel like a rival but I suppose that is what will happen.
‘It was very important how the coach spoke to me, how I would fit in his team. After that conversation I knew it was the right decision.’
Benitez's spending may not yet be over as he continues to be linked with Manchester United's Argentina defender Gabriel Heinze, who plays in the Copa America final against Brazil on Sunday, while the Spaniard is keen to pin full-back Steve Finnan to a new contract.
The 31-year Republic of Ireland international is set to follow the example of goalkeeper Jose Reina, defender Jamie Carragher and midfielders Mohamed Sissoko, Steven Gerrard and Xabi Alonso by signing a two-year deal with the option of an extra 12 months.
