LIVERPOOL CONFIRMED ON Friday that they have completed the signing of Italian international striker Fabio Borini from Roma, becoming Brendan Rodgers’ first signing as Anfield boss.

The 21-year-old Borini put pen to paper on a long-term deal after agreeing terms and passing a medical.

The fee was undisclosed but media reports suggested that Liverpool will pay around £7.8 million (10 million euros).

Rodgers worked with Borini when he was manager of Swansea and took the player on loan in 2011.

He scored six goals in nine matches as the team won promotion to the Premier League.

Last season he scored 10 goals in 26 appearances for Roma and earned his international debut in a friendly against USA.

Borini was also part of Italy’s Euro 2012 squad.

“Fabio fits the model of what we’re trying to do in building not only for now, but also for the future,” said Rodgers.

“He’s a big talent, 21 years of age, he scores goals, and his passion, focus and concentration is a very important part of his game – and a big part of what you want from a player.

“I think the supporters will love him. He’s a multi-functional player who can play in a number of positions and someone I believe has got great growth. I’d anticipate that over the next two or three years he’ll really progress and I’m sure do very well for Liverpool.

“He is arguably the best physical player I’ve worked with in terms of his pace, power and fitness.”

Earlier Friday, Liverpool midfielder Maxi Rodriguez agreed to join Newell’s Old Boys in Argentina for an undisclosed fee.

Maxi, 31, arrived at Anfield from Atletico Madrid in Spain in January, 2010, and went on to to score 17 goals in 73 appearances for the Reds.

“Everyone at Liverpool FC would like to thank Maxi for his contribution to the club and wish him all the best for the future,” said a club statement.

© AFP, 2012

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