Harry Kewell has today finally joined Liverpool in a deal believed to be worth £5 million. Leeds have claimed another £2 million was paid to Kewell's camp to ensure the deal did not collapse.
The protracted transfer saga surrounding Kewell has now been resolved, with the 24-year-old signing a five-year contract understood to be worth around £60,000 a week.
The move ends months of speculation surrounding the Australia international, who has been linked with Arsenal, Manchester United, Barcelona and Arsenal, instead choosing to join his boyhood heroes.
Kewell had been hoping to have completed the move to Anfield earlier this week, ending his near eight-year association with Leeds after turning his back on the opportunity of becoming United's highest-paid player on £48,000 per week.
However, the deal was held up by a number of sticking points, prolonging negotiations which according to Kewell have been ongoing for the last six months.
But Kewell insists money has not been a motivating factor, particularly as Chelsea are believed to have made a late bid, while the Gunners and Manchester United both showed significant interest.
"Of course, it's nice to hear about myself in connection with such big clubs, but this is my first choice and I cannot wait," said Kewell, who has already passed a medical.
"They have got some great players there and some exciting young players. There was just something special about Liverpool and that is why I accepted theirs (offer).
"I was offered a lot more money to go to different clubs. Money was not the main factor. The main factor was my family and obviously the coach."
Kewell is confident he will improve as a player with the Reds, particularly as he will be wearing the famous number seven shirt previously worn by the likes of Kenny Dalglish and Peter Beardsley.
Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier hailed the `exciting' arrival of Kewell.
He said on the club's official website, www.Liverpoolfc.tv: "This is a fantastic signing for the club and its fans.
"After the intense media interest in the player I am delighted we have finally completed a deal which can only excite our supporters all over the world.
"We had spoken about bringing in players who would have the fans on the edge of their seats and I can't think of a better description for the qualities that Harry will bring to Anfield."
Houllier added: "When you consider the calibre of rival clubs from all over Europe competing for his signature, it's a huge boost for us ahead of the new campaign and an indication of Harry's belief in what we want to achieve here.
"We have worked very hard to bring the player here against intense competition and I want to pay tribute to (chairman) David Moores, (chief executive) Rick Parry and the board for their efforts. Like them, I could not be more delighted at the successful outcome."