For a few years the reds have been feasting on south coast Southampton, but Bournemouth today took their second bite out of Liverpool's youngsters - completing a deal for 22 year old Australian international Brad Smith.
The initial fee nearer to £3M than the original £6M mooted by the press.
Liverpool are now close to being left with only Alberto Moreno at left back after a deal that has raised some eyebrows amongst LFC fans.
SMITH: #afcb is a good fit for me - I am keen to learn and progress here: https://t.co/QrU6QeqBB6 pic.twitter.com/JOOVUi3nW3
— AFC Bournemouth (@afcbournemouth) 27 July 2016
Smith moved from Australia to England when he was 14, joining Liverpool's academy.
He has nine international caps and has made 11 appearances for the reds - 10 of which arrived last season. He also scored his debut reds goal in the FA Cup third round against Exeter.
News of the reds accepting an offer was first revealed at the weekend and Smith packed up his belongings from Liverpool's tour of the US and returned back to England to agree personal terms and undergo a medical.
Brad spoke to the Bournemouth media shortly after signing:
“I’m really looking forward to the opportunity here.
“It all happened quite quickly. I knew there was a bit of interest and then they put the bid in, Liverpool accepted and we went from there really.
“I flew to America [with Liverpool] and was there for about five days. Once I found out that the bid had been accepted, I stopped training with the team to make sure everything went the right way.
“It’s a great stadium here and it’s a great opportunity for me to come and play in front of the fans. Hopefully I’ll do well, learn a lot and progress in my career.
“Bournemouth did really well last season and I think the club can be a great team in the Premier League for many years to come. They’re just getting started really.
“I think it’ll be a good fit for me and I can’t wait to get going here.”
Smith signs a four year deal with the Cherries who paid £15M for Jordon Ibe earlier this summer.
Chief Exec at Bournemouth, Neill Blake said:
“I am delighted to confirm that we have completed a deal to bring Brad to the football club.
“Brad broke through at Anfield last season and impressed whenever he was called upon.
"He is another excellent young player that we believe can progress under Eddie and Jason’s guidance, but he also brings with him experience of playing at the highest level in both the Premier League and on the international stage with the Socceroos.
“It is an exciting time for us as we bring yet another promising prospect into our progressive squad."
The reds have Joe Gomez (currently injured) and new signings Ragnar Klavan who can fill in at left back. Jon Flanagan looks set for a season loan at Burnley so the sale of Smith will only intensify efforts to solve a problematic position at Anfield.
