'Why Luis Alberto will excite LFC fans'
Barcelona-based football writer for Goal.com, Ben Hayward, gives us the lowdown on what Liverpool fans can expect from new signing Luis Alberto...
What are your thoughts on Liverpool signing Luis Alberto?
Definitely a good signing. At just 20, Luis Alberto is one for the future but also looks ready to step up to top-flight football now. Frustrated by a lack of opportunities at Sevilla, he blossomed at Barcelona B on loan last season and is keen to show what he can do in the first team at a big club. Liverpool should be the ideal stage.
Barca reportedly had an option to buy him - why didn't they take him?
Many Barcelona fans are upset that the club did not activate an option to buy him, but I think they realised he would want first-team football sooner rather than later and with Neymar coming in, Messi omnipresent, Pedro, Alexis Sanchez, Cristian Tello all staying and Andres Iniesta and Cesc Fabregas sometimes occupying forward positions too, there is overbooking in the front three at Camp Nou. Barca may also bring in another striker this summer as David Villa departs, so opportunities would have been scarce for Luis Alberto.
What are his key attributes?
He has excellent technical ability and can beat players with his trickery, even though he is not the quickest. He also boasts superb vision, great tactical awareness and creativity, as well as a very powerful shot with his right foot. He scored 11 goals for Barca B in 2012-13, including several spectacular efforts from outside the area, and racked up an impressive 18 assists. His heading can probably be improved, though.
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Where do you see him slotting into our side?
He can slot in across the front line or even as an attacking midfielder. At Barcelona he was happiest in the 'false nine' role, while he started his career as a left forward - even though he is right-footed. He looks comfortable in any of those positions, but may be suited to a slightly deeper role behind a main striker in the Premier League.
Do you think he'll be able to adapt to the Premier League?
He should do very well. He has the stature to cope with a more physical game, although he will need to bulk up somewhat and improve his strength for the Premier League. His vision and technical ability will serve him well and should suit the style of play Brendan Rodgers is so keen on. With the right coaching and adaptation, he can be an excellent signing. His versatility is also a huge plus.
If you had to compare him to another player?
I suppose he is a little like Juan Mata in that he has excellent technical abilities and is very creative, with a good eye for goal as well. He is more direct than the Chelsea player, though. At Barcelona, he linked up brilliantly with another young Spain star, promising winger Gerard Deulofeu.
Should supporters be excited?
Definitely, although he is still young and will need time to adapt.
Follow Ben on Twitter @bghayward.