Reds finalise Riera move

Liverpool confirm Spanish swoop

Last updated: 2nd September 2008

Reds finalise Riera move

Riera: Deal done

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Liverpool have confirmed the signing of Spanish international Albert Riera from Espanyol.

The 26-year-old winger, who earlier in his career spent time on loan at Manchester City, has penned a four-year deal at Anfield after the two clubs agreed an undisclosed fee - believed to be around £8million.

Liverpool beat city rivals Everton to Riera's signature and boss Rafa Benitez was delighted to seal the capture of his fellow countryman.

"Riera has the qualities we were looking for," Benitez told the club's official website.

"He's a left footer who normally plays on the left wing, he's good in the air, strong, powerful and a good crosser of the ball.

"He's the kind of player we have been talking about. He can beat players and get good deliveries into the area for our strikers.

"We've known about him for a long time, since he was at Mallorca and then through his career with Bordeaux, Manchester City and Espanyol.

"He can talk English and of course he knows the Premier League, which is a big bonus. Usually foreign players need time when they go to a new country, but Riera already knows the league and the style of football

"He also had offers from other English clubs but he said no to them because he wanted to come and play for us. That means a lot to me because it shows the commitment he has to play for Liverpool."