Reds Snap Up Adam At Last

Liverpool have completed the signing of Charlie Adam from Blackpool in a deal thought to be worth an initial L6.75million.

The former Rangers man and Pool captain becomes Liverpool’s second major signing of the summer, following the acquisition of Jordan Henderson from Sunderland.

The signing of Adam has been a highly protracted one, with the Reds being among a number of clubs who had a series of bids for the player turned down back in January.

But with Blackpool since relegated from the Premier League, it had been widely accepted at Bloomfield Road that their skipper would depart before the Championship season kicked off.

Despite interest from Aston Villa and Tottenham, Anfield always looked the likely destination for the Scot, who admitted he was ‘delighted’ to finally join Kenny Dalglish’s side.

The 25-year-old has been handed the number 15 shirt, though his arrival has cast doubt over the futures of some his midfield teammates.

With Lucas Leiva, Steven Gerrard, Jay Spearing, Jordan Henderson, Jonjo Shelvey Alberto Aquilani and Raul Meireles already at the club and vying for first team football in midfield, it seems inevitable that players will head for the exit door come September.

While either Shelvey or Spearing could leave on loan, it seems most likely according to those dishing out football betting tips that the club will look to sell either Aquilani or Meireles after Lucas was awarded the club’s player of the season award.

Aquilani is said to be keen to return Italy, though interested Serie A clubs will struggle to match the Reds’ valuation of the player.  Meireles had a successful start to his Premier League career last season, but may be unloaded for a higher fee than the L11.5million the club paid Porto for his services.

Meanwhile, Gael Clichy revealed that he turned down an offer from Liverpool to join Manchester City and the Merseyside club may now revert their attentions to Jose Enrique of Newcastle, who they have tracked for some time.

Dalglish and director of football Damien Comolli are also determined to bring Stewart Downing to the club, but after a bid was rejected by Aston Villa for the player, they may turn to Valencia wide-man Juan Mata.