One of the summer’s longest transfer sagas has drawn to a close, with Raheem Sterling completing his move to Manchester City.
The Liverpool forward’s departure from Anfield has been confirmed by both clubs, with the Reds first to announce the news on Twitter.
#LFC can confirm Raheem Sterling has completed a transfer to Manchester City http://t.co/gzc6SJew3J pic.twitter.com/PBZAuRCc2k
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) July 14, 2015
While the fee for the 20-year-old has not been officially reported by either club, City have confirmed that it is a record for an English player.
The previous record was the £35m paid by Liverpool for Andy Carroll, and Sterling is expected to cost the Manchester side in the region of £49m.
Sterling will wear the number 7 shirt previously worn by James Milner, who moved in the opposite direction earlier in the summer.
Both clubs can now press ahead with their pre-season plans without the distraction of a transfer saga hanging over their heads.
Liverpool’s Far East tour has already begun, with captain Jordan Henderson starring in a 4-0 win over the Thai All-Stars, while City are preparing to face Australian sides Adelaide United and Melbourne City.
After all that, it seems money can buy you love…
