Liverpool’s new £60m signing Dominik Szoboszlai chose the number 8 shirt that Steven Gerrard once wore and credits the former Kop captain as one of his inspirations.

Szoboszlai is eager to play for Liverpool

The 22-year-old has signed a five-year contract – with only a work permit pending – after his move from Bundesliga side RB Leipzig was completed within days. An expensive and flashy signing came after Liverpool activated Szoboszlai’s release clause on Friday, hours before it expired.

Szoboszlai chose the legendary number 8 shirt

Szoboszlai will wear the recently vacated shirt of Naby Keita, also a former Leipzig player whose contract has expired. But the Hungarian midfielder did not look to senior Naby Keita but chose the number 8 shirt because of his admiration for Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard.

“When I was a kid, to be honest, I didn’t watch football much, but of course I only watched the Champions League or the big games,” he said. And I always watch Liverpool with the big teams. Follow the big players and he’s one of the biggest.

“The past three or four days have been really long; not an easy time. But when I finally got here, I’m happy and can’t wait to start playing for Liverpool.”

Szoboszlai shows off a tattoo of Steven Gerrard with the words on his arm:

“Talent is a gift, but without extraordinary will and humility there is no value.”

The Hungary international is the second player to arrive in the summer’s midfield rebuild after Liverpool signed 24-year-old World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton for £35m.

Szoboszlai is seen by Liverpool as a more viable option than former target Mason Mount, who they are interested in with 12 months left on his contract but Chelsea are overpriced for his age, versatility and potential ball skills.

The deal was done quickly as Szoboszlai is keen to move to Anfield and link up with Jurgen Klopp, whom he has long admired. “I’m really happy to hear that Liverpool are interested but I keep calm because I don’t want to get happy too soon.

“With that being said, in 2020 I think Klopp is one of the best coaches in the world. The way he acts on the edge of the pitch, it’s like he’s playing with other people. I really like that.

“And what he has achieved with this club is also really impressive, so I’m looking forward to working with Klopp.”