Mohamed Sissoko, Mali midfielder, has completed his move from English Premier League club Liverpool to Serie A giants Juventus for $16.26 million, according to the Italian club.
The combative defensive midfielder flew to Italy at the weekend for a medical before heading back to the Africa Cup of Nations in Ghana, where his side Mali face Ivory Coast later on Tuesday.
Sissoko, who went to Anfield in 2005 but fell out of favour following the arrival of Javier Mascherano, has signed a five-year contract with the Turin club, a statement said.
The tough tackler played under Claudio Ranieri, Juventus manager, at Valencia in 2004, and replaces Argentine Sergio Almiron, who was sent on loan to Monaco after an ineffective first few months at Juve having signed from Empoli.
"I am happy to come to such an important club, this experience is certainly a step forward in my career."
Momo Sissoko |
"I am happy to come to such an important club, this experience is certainly a step forward in my career," Sissoko said in a statement.
"I am excited at the thought of soon being able to play with great champions and to work again with Claudio Ranieri, a great coach who I already appreciated during my time at Valencia."
If Mali reach the African Cup final on February 10, Juve could be without their new signing for two league games.
Juve, who currently sit third in Serie A, have also signed Lazio defender Guglielmo Stendardo on loan until June and announced that Aston Villa defender Olof Mellberg would be joining the club in July.
Sissoko's move was due to be sealed on Monday but was delayed slightly.
The fee will be paid in three installments and could rise by a further $3 million depending on Juve's performance.