Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has described Luis Diaz as an outstanding player and was delighted he joined the club.
The Reds confirmed the signing of the 25-year old Colombia winger from Porto and will join the club subject to the successful granting of a work permit and international clearance.
Klopp while speaking on the signing of the player who had faced Liverpool twice in the UEFA Champions League said he was happier the deal was done.
Read Also:Klopp Admits Liverpool Misses Salah, Keita and Mane After Arsenal Draw
“I could not be happier that we’ve been able to get this deal done and bring Luis to Liverpool,” the manager told Liverpoolfc.com.
“I have always been a believer in only signing players in January if you would want to sign them in the summer, and that’s very much the case with Luis.
“He is an outstanding player and someone we’ve been tracking for a very long time.
“We believe he has everything needed to fit into our way and adapt to the Premier League, both physically and mentally.
“He is a player who is hungry for success and knows you have to fight to get what you want. He is a fighter, no doubt.
“He’s a skilful team player who has always the goal in mind.
“This team deserved to add quality and when we played against Luis earlier this season, we saw what a danger he is, how fast he is and how his mentality was to help his team.
“We know Porto is an outstanding club who nurture players in the best possible way and provide a brilliant football education.
“They are a class club and, I have to say, have been tough negotiators.
“We also have to say thank you to the Colombia FA for being so helpful in allowing us the time to complete this deal.
“They have a big game on Tuesday and I know as well as anyone how important preparation is for matches, so for them to allow us a few hours to finalise the transfer without impacting their training was greatly appreciated.
“I also must make clear my appreciation to our ownership and football operations team for how they have managed to act so decisively to get this done.
“Luis is a player we believe will make us better now and in the future.
“He is the player we really wanted and they’ve made it happen, so I am very happy.”
Diaz will arrive on Merseyside once he has completed international duty with Colombia, who face Argentina in a World Cup qualifier in Cordoba on Tuesday evening.
He joins Liverpool after two-and-a-half seasons with FC Porto, where he made 125 appearances and scored 41 goals, and will wear the No.23 shirt.