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Reds tie up deal for out-of-contract Degen

20/05/2008

Borussia Dortmund defender Philipp Degen has agreed a contract with Liverpool and will sign on a free transfer in July, the club has announced.

The Swiss star, who will represent his country at this summer's Euro 2008 tournament on home soil, is out of contract at the Bundesliga club this summer.

And the 25-year-old right-back has opted for Anfield ahead of a number of other interested European clubs.

"When I received the offer from Liverpool, there was no doubt I would accept it," Degen explained.

"They are one of the biggest clubs in the world and I am looking forward to the challenge of establishing myself there and playing in the best league there is."

Degen will compete with Steve Finnan and Alvaro Arbeloa for a place in the Reds' starting XI as Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez looks to strengthen his squad ahead of the 2008/09 Premier League season.

Speaking about his newest signing, the Spaniard said: "Philipp is still young but has gained great experience from playing in the Bundesliga with Borussia Dortmund and on the international stage with Switzerland.

"He also played in the Champions League during his time with FC Basel and so is used to top-level football.

"He is an offensive player with great energy and a winning mentality. His strength is going forward and I am confident he will be prove to be a quality addition to our squad."