Sadio Mane jumped at chance to join Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool

New signing Sadio Mane admits he did not have to think twice when Jurgen Klopp asked him to join Liverpool.

The 24-year-old became the club’s third most expensive player when signing a five-year contract after a £30 million deal was finalised with Southampton.

Mane at Melwood - great sight. 👍 #SadioSignshttps://t.co/u12FRz9FMO

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) June 28, 2016

There has been some dispute between the clubs over Mane’s fee with Southampton saying privately it is £34m rising to £36m with add-ons but sources at Anfield have rejected those claims.

Irrespective of the price tag, which puts the Senegal player behind only Andy Carroll (£35m) and Christian Benteke (£32.5m) in terms of the club’s record signings, Mane is not over-awed by the challenge having met Klopp.

"I'm excited to meet all the guys!"

Our new addition can't wait to get going at #LFC. 😄 #SadioSignshttps://t.co/NpkEtvglTK

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) June 28, 2016

“I spoke with him and I think he played a big role in me coming to Liverpool and I want to thank him for all the confidence,” the striker, who will wear the number 19 shirt, told LFCTV.

“He said he wanted me to come and I didn’t try to ask myself questions as I was convinced Liverpool was the right club for me. It is the right club, right coach and right moment to change.

“But I want to thank Southampton because they were amazing and if I am here today I can say it is because of Southampton.

“I learned a lot and I worked with some nice people.”

Mane, who scored 25 goals in 75 appearances for the Saints, is Klopp’s fourth signing after centre-back Joel Matip, midfielder Marko Grujic and goalkeeper Loris Karius. Liverpool’s players who have not been involved in the European Championships are due to return for pre-season training on Saturday with their first friendly the following Friday at neighbours Tranmere.

Completing a deal before then was important for Klopp and Mane.

He didn't need much convincing - but what made Mane join #LFC?

Full interview: https://t.co/O8m9Hk4f6Q#SadioSignshttps://t.co/jUQro3v0gB

— Liverpool FC (@LFC) June 28, 2016

“I am happy because it is not easy if you start after (pre-season has started),” added the forward.

“But I have signed today so I will start with the team, which makes me happy and makes it easy to work with my team-mates. Today is a big day and I am very happy to sign for one of the biggest clubs in Europe.

“It’s a club that has won a lot of trophies and has a big history. I remember when I was younger I watched Liverpool v AC Milan (in the 2005 Champions League final): it was amazing and I was happy for Liverpool.

“They had great legends like (Steven) Gerrard and (Jamie) Carragher. It was my dream to play at a big club and the dream has come true. I am very happy to be part of Liverpool. I am excited to play at Anfield in front of the amazing fans and I am looking forward to a great season together as a club.

“I want the fans to be confident and I think this season will be special.”

Meanwhile, Moussa Dembele has been confirmed as Brendan Rodgers’ first signing as Celtic manager.

And Paris St Germain have appointed Unai Emery to replace Laurent Blanc as their coach.