Liverpool has officially announced the signing of midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai from Bundesliga club RB Leipzig for 70m euros (£60m). The 22-year-old Szoboszlai is now the second addition to the Reds' squad this summer, following Alexis Mac Allister's transfer from Brighton. Liverpool managed to secure the Hungarian midfielder's signature by activating his release clause at Leipzig before it expired on June 30.
Szoboszlai's arrival comes after Liverpool's pursuit of Chelsea's Mason Mount, who had entered the final 12 months of his contract. However, the negotiations with Chelsea proved to be more complex and expensive compared to the straightforward deal with Leipzig for Szoboszlai.
In an interview with the club's website, Szoboszlai expressed his excitement about joining the historic club, praising its excellent players and coach. He eagerly looks forward to making the next step in his career with Liverpool, appreciating the passion of the fans and the greatness of the stadium.
"The last three or four days went really long, it was not that easy. But at the end I'm here, I'm happy and I can't wait to get started. A really historic club, really good players, good coach, everything is good. For me it was perfect to make the next step in a club like this. The fans, the stadium, everything is really good."
During his time at Leipzig since January 2021, Szoboszlai has proven to be an impactful player, contributing with 20 goals and 22 assists in 91 games. He played a crucial role in helping the team secure the German Cup and finish in the top four of the Bundesliga for the past two seasons.
Known for his expertise in set-pieces, goal-scoring ability, and versatility across the midfield, Szoboszlai will wear the prestigious No. 8 shirt at Liverpool, a number previously donned by the club legend, Steven Gerrard, and recently vacated by Naby Keïta.
On the international stage, Szoboszlai has represented Hungary 32 times, earning the captain's armband last year after Adam Szalai's resignation. One of his most memorable goals for his national team came from a penalty spot against England, securing a 1-0 victory for Hungary last June.
With the addition of Dominik Szoboszlai to the previously signed Argentine World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister, 24, Liverpool's midfield rebuilding process seems to have been executed wisely. Both players are considered ready for first-team action and are viewed as long-term investments for the club's future.