James Milner to Liverpool: Latest Transfer Details, Reaction and More

Liverpool have completed the signing of versatile Manchester City midfielder James Milner, subject to a medical.

The Reds announced a deal for the England international on Twitter:

As announced by James Carroll of Liverpool's official website, Milner arrives on a free, with the club later providing photos of Milner arriving at the club for the first time:

Milner also spoke about the role Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers played in his decision to make the move, via the club release:

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He was a massive part, to be honest. The club doesn't need a lot of selling about what a great club it is, with all the history, the support and the squad they have. But speaking to the manager and what his plans were for me, things I've heard about him from other players - I was speaking to Stevie at England and people like that - and what he said to me made me want to come and play for him straight away.

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He joins after appearing 32 times in the Premier League for City last season, scoring five goals and providing seven assists, per WhoScored.com. The 29-year-old is a levelheaded, hard-working player who is capable of playing on the wing, as a supporting striker and in central midfield.

Rodgers often favours stars who can fulfill multifunctional roles. Milner could potentially replace outgoing captain Steven Gerrard in midfield or even be deployed wide if Raheem Sterling is sold during the summer.

The physical star has often been a victim of his own versatility. Milner is a smart passer of the ball, possesses decent technical skill and is willing to sacrifice himself for the team. OptaJoe underlined the former Leeds United, Newcastle United and Aston Villa man's work rate:

Milner has the capacity to be an underwhelming signing by some people's standards, but he'll provide a solution to many problems at Anfield. He is the type of enabler who will allow the club's more obvious stars to score goals and perform well.

B/R UK's Sam Tighe recently looked at where Milner will fit in:

Mike Keegan of the Daily Mail and MailOnline Sport's Twitter account note Milner chose playing time over cash when deciding to leave the Etihad Stadium:

Although the transfer window hasn't officially opened, Rodgers now has his first signing ahead of the new season. Lille forward Divock Origi will also finally join the club after agreeing a move last summer, so things are beginning to come together for the manager.

Richard Heathcote/Getty Images

Replacing Gerrard is an impossible task, but finding reliable, top-quality players will make the transition easier. Milner rarely succumbs to pressure situations and is more than confident enough to slot in wherever needed. However, it's likely he will be given a leadership role under Rodgers' tutelage.

It's entirely possible we'll look back at Milner's arrival and mark him as one of the bargains of the summer when the 2015-16 campaign is finished. Often underrated and underused, he now has an opportunity to make himself a fan favourite in front of the Kop.