Liverpool transfers: Reds splash reported £34m on Southampton winger Sadio Mane
Published:
Jamie Clark, Sports Editor | June 28, 2016
Liverpool have announced the signing of Southampton and Senegal winger Sadio Mane on a long-term contract for a reported fee of £34m.
Mane said: “Today is a big day and I am very happy to sign for one of the biggest clubs in Europe.
“It’s a club that has won a lot of trophies and has a big history. Now I am looking forward to meeting all the staff and my teammates and starting the season.”
It's a done deal – #SadioSigns! pic.twitter.com/ptQvxlrig2
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) June 28, 2016
Mane move echoes others
The 24-year-old, who averaged a goal every three games in 75 matches across all competitions for the Saints, becomes Jurgen Klopp’s third summer signing at Anfield following the free transfer of Cameroon defender Joel Matip from Schalke and Mainz goalkeeper Loris Karius for £4.7m.
Coral make the Reds 13/8 chances for a top four Premier League finish in what is set to be Klopp’s first full season at the helm.
It is understood, provided certain add-ons and bonus clauses are met, Mane’s move to Merseyside could eclipse the total £35m club record Liverpool paid Newcastle United for Andy Carroll in 2011.
Mane, who will wear number 19, has reached double figures for Premier League goals in both his seasons at St Mary’s, and this past term he scored home and away against his new club.
He follows in the footsteps of recent Reds signings from Southampton, which include Adam Lallana and Nathaniel Clyne.
Saints story as selling club continues
Having cashed in on defensive midfielder Victor Wanyama to Tottenham for £11m and lost manager Ronald Koeman to Liverpool’s Merseyside neighbours Everton, the Saints have already moved to replace Mane by buying Norwich City winger Nathan Redmond for a reported initial £10m.
It is thus yet another summer of change for Southampton, who remain without a manager yet former Lyon boss Claude Puel is made a strong favourite to take up the reins of the south coast club.
Rated unlikely relegation chances at 25/1, but 15/2 to follow up on a Europa League place with a top four finish in 2016/17, the Saints continue to be a selling club to their detriment and the benefit of more illustrious rivals.
Related
