Bellamy seals dream move

Blackburn Rovers striker Craig Bellamy has completed his 'dream' move to Liverpool.

Blackburn Rovers striker Craig Bellamy has completed his move to Liverpool after conceding he could not reject the chance to join his boyhood heroes.

The FA Cup winners activated a clause in the Wales international's Blackburn contract earlier this week and were reluctantly given permission to talk to the 26-year-old.

Bellamy was quick to agree personal terms with The Reds and has signed a four-year contract at Anfield.

His switch to Merseyside comes less than 12 months after Bellamy joined Blackburn, but he insists he could not refuse Rafa Benitez's offer.

"The fact that it was Liverpool made it impossible for me to turn down the move," Bellamy told the club's official website.

"As I'm a fan, it doesn't matter what club I was at - I could never turn Liverpool down.

"You get the chance to play for Liverpool and it's a lifelong dream come true.

"I had a lot of friends at Blackburn - the players, the coaching staff, the chairman are all great people - and I owe them a lot - a hell of a lot to be honest.

"They helped me improve and they were there at an awkward time for me, but I've spoken to a lot of the players and they know the situation.

"I've had no problem from any player at Blackburn and I'm sure if any of them got the chance to join the team they love with all their heart, they'd do exactly the same thing.

"It's sad in a way to leave Blackburn, but this is too good a chance to turn down."

It is believed Liverpool have paid in the region of £6 million for Bellamy, who has now commanded transfer fees in excess of £20 million during his career.

He moved to Blackburn last summer for £5 million after an unhappy conclusion to his Newcastle United days, which ended with a loan spell at Scottish giants Celtic.

Though Bellamy was troubled by injuries at Ewood Park, he managed 13 goals in 27 Premiership appearances and was a key figure in Rovers qualifying for the Uefa Cup.