Reds swoop for Degen

Dortmund defender to join Liverpool on free transfer

By James Pearson   Last updated: 20th May 2008

Philipp Degen Borussia Dortmund

Degen joining Reds on July 1

He is an offensive player with great energy and a winning mentality.

Benitez on Degen
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Liverpool have confirmed they have secured the services of Borussia Dortmund's Switzerland international defender Philipp Degen for next season.

The 25-year-old was out of contract with the Bundesliga outfit this summer, meaning The Reds were free to negotiate a deal with him for the start of the 2008/09 Premier League campaign.

The right-sided full-back will battle it out with Steve Finnan and Alvaro Arbeloa for a place in Rafa Benitez's starting XI next term once he completes his switch on 1st July.

Spanish tactician Benitez believes Degen will bring some useful experience to Anfield, as he has played in the UEFA Champions League along with representing his country.

Experience

"Philipp is still young but has gained great experience from playing in the Bundesliga with Borussia Dortmund and on the international stage with Switzerland," he told the club's official website.

"He also played in the Champions League during his time with Basel and so is used to top level football.

"He is an offensive player with great energy and a winning mentality. His strength is going forward and I am confident he will prove to be a quality addition to our squad."

Degen needed no second invitation to snap up The Reds' offer after confirming his belief they are one of the biggest clubs in world football.

He stated: "When I received the offer from Liverpool, there was no doubt I would accept it. They are one of the biggest clubs in the world and I am looking forward to the challenge of playing in the best league there is."