Football Transfer News – Liverpool have signed Atletico Madrid midfielder Maxi Rodriguez on a free transfer, the club has confirmed on their official website.

After completing a medical on Merseyside, the 29-year-old Argentine winger has signed a three-and-a-half year contract at the club, and the move will be confirmed subject to international clearance.

The move will please Reds boss Rafa Benitez, as the Spaniard looks to strengthen his squad following a stuttering start to the season.

Rodriguez, who can play on either wing or through the middle, will add competition to the right-wing position usually occupied by Dirk Kuyt, and is known to enjoy a strong relationship with both Javier Mascherano – his international captain with Argentina – and Fernando Torres – an ex-teammate at Atleti.

Rodriguez, who was at Anfield to watch the Reds’ FA Cup Third Round replay with Reading on Wednesday night, will wear the number 17 shirt at Anfield, and could be available to make his debut against Stoke City at the Britannia Stadium this weekend.