Liverpool have finally concluded the transfer of Albert Riera from Espanyol.

The fee is officially undisclosed but is reportedly in the region of GBP12million and represents a big capture for Liverpool who have been desperate to bolster their left sided options.

Riera had offers from both side of Merseyside to consider but in the end has opted for Champions League football by committing himself to Liverpool in a four year deal.

The Spanish international will wear the number 11 jersey at Anfield and.his arrival has been highly praised by manager Rafa Benitez.

"Riera has the qualities we were looking for," said Benitez.

"He's a left-footer who normally plays on the left wing, he's good in the air, strong, powerful and a good crosser of the ball."

While Aston Villa's Gareth Barry was Liverpool clear first choice for the position on the left hand side of midfield Riera is perhaps more of a winger than the Englishmen and is expected to provide the 2005 Champions League Champions with a far more balanced look to their midfield.

"He's the kind of player we have been talking about. He can beat players and get good deliveries into the area for our strikers.

"We've known about him for a long time, since he was at Mallorca and then through his career with Bordeaux, Manchester City and Espanyol.

"He can speak English and of course he knows the Premier League, which is a big bonus. Usually foreign players need time when they go to a new country, but Riera already knows the league and the style of football.

"He also had offers from other English clubs but he said no to them because he wanted to come and play for us. That means a lot to me because it shows the commitment he has to play for Liverpool."