Sadio Mane to Liverpool: Southampton winger signs at Anfield for reported £30m fee on long term contract

The 24-year-old becomes just the latest player to arrive at Anfield via a stint at Southampton

Sadio Mane signs his contract at Liverpool after joining from Southampton (Getty)

Liverpool have confirmed the signing of Sadio Mane from Southampton for a fee reported to be in the region of £30m.

The 24-year-old becomes just the latest player to arrive at Anfield via a stint at Southampton, following in the footsteps of Dejan Lovren, Rickie Lambert, Adam Lallana and Nathaniel Clyne.

Mane, who has signed a "long-term" contract, is a product of the Metz academy and is likely to be the showpiece addition of the summer for Liverpool as manager Jurgen Klopp continues to redevelop the side he inherited from Brandan Rodgers.

Southampton have already made plans for the Senegalese international’s departure, confirming the signing of Nathan Redmond from Norwich City for £10m last week.

Mane ended the season as the Saints’ top goal-scorer (15) and will be crucial to Klopp’s plans next season as the German manager attempts to restore Liverpool’s place in the Champions League. The explosive winger will wear the number 19 shirt at Anfield next season.

Mane told Liverpoolfc.com: “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.”