Maxi Rodriguez unveiled at Anfield

Liverpool have completed the transfer of Argentina winger Maxi Rodriguez from La Liga side Atletico Madrid on a free transfer.

The pacey midfielder has signed a 3-year contract and was unveiled to the Anfield crowd before this evening’s FA Cup tie against Reading.

It is understood that Javier Mascherano was a major influence in tempting Rodriguez to Merseyside, with the two being close friends and international teammates.

Reds boss Rafa Benitez was delighted after completing the signing, telling press, “He can play on the right, left or as a second striker.

“He is good at getting into the box and is a good finisher. Every year he gets five to 15 goals from midfield.”

Rodriguez could make his debut as early as this Saturday’s Premier League clash with Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium.

Benitez added, “We were looking for players with character and a good mentality,” Benitez added.

“I know he was not doing as well as he did in the past at Atletico Madrid, but he is doing really well with Argentina and wants to impress for the World Cup.”

The signing will spark more transfer rumours about the future of Ryan Babel at Anfield, with Birmingham City reportedly having had a £9million for the Dutch international turned down last week.