Brendan Rodgers Labels Liverpool's Fourth Signing Lazar Markovic as an Exciting Prospect

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers expressed his 'excitement' on acquiring the services of Lazar Markovic from Benfica in the ongoing transfer window.

The 20-year-old became the Merseyside club's fourth summer signing for a fee thought to be around £20m after penning a long-term contract on Tuesday. The Reds have already added Rickie Lambert, Emre Can and Adam Lallana to their roster for the upcoming campaign; but will be without their star man, Luis Suarez, who joined Barcelona.

Rodgers is keen on adding depth and bolstering his squad and is looking to sign versatile players. The former Swansea boss had earmarked the Serbian winger, who can also play as a second striker.

"This is an exciting signing for us and one that improves our squad, in terms of attacking options, for the coming season," Rodgers told Liverpool's official website.

"He was hugely impressive for Benfica last season and has proved he has the ability to produce the goods in European competition as well, which will be important for us.

"Lazar is flexible to play a number of positions, but I like the way he attacks games and is always positive and looking to make something happen. He will fit in with the way we play at Liverpool," he added.

Rodgers also went on to reveal his delight in signing a young player with great skills and abilities, with potential to improve further.

"Getting him at such a young age is also very pleasing for us, because we will be able to work with him to develop his talent within our group and improve him even further," Rodgers added.

"He is the sort of character who is hungry to get better and progress; this is what we look for in players," the 41-year-old concluded.

Markovic showed glimpses of his talents for Benfica last season scoring five times in 25 appearances in the league. He also featured eight times in the Europa League as Jorge Jesus' side had to settle for a runners-up spot against Sevilla.

The former Partizan Belgrade starlet is capped 12 times for the Serbian senior team and has two goals on his tally.