Sissoko seals Reds move

Liverpool have completed the signing of Mohamed Sissoko from Valencia.

The Reds moved to snare the midfielder from under the noses of rivals Everton last week.

Sissoko has now put the finishing touches to his move to Anfield after passing a medical and agreeing personal terms.

Reds boss Rafa Benitez knows all about the Mali international having signed him while he was in charge at Valencia.

Sissoko is set to fly with the rest of his new team-mates to Switzerland on Thursday as they get ready for a pre-season training camp.

"I have a great deal of respect for Mr Benitez," said Sissoko. "He helped me a lot at Valencia and he was the main reason why I decided to come to Liverpool.

"He showed last season with Liverpool what a great manager he is and I want to be a part of this club's future. I know all about the history and tradition of the club and I am honoured to be here.

"As well as the manager I already know some members of the backroom staff and some of the players. That will help me settle in.

"I'm just looking forward to challenging for a first team place now. There are a lot of great midfielders here already and so I know it's going to be difficult, but I am still young and highly motivated to prove my worth."