Jürgen Klopp was a happy man following his big money acquisition of forward Sadio Mane, a player he admitted he had been tracking for several years. 

The 24-year-old was today officially unveiled as a Liverpool player following his £30million move from Southampton after weeks of speculation.

Jürgen Klopp tracked Mane for years

The Reds manager was ecstatic as the Senegal international finally put pen to paper and made the switch from St. Mary's where he scored 25 goals from 75 appearances during his two year stay to Anfield.

Mane had been tracked by the German since 2012 when he featured in the Olympics football tournament as his national side advanced to the quarter finals, Klopp kept a close eye on the forward as his development continued at Red Bull Salzburg before he moved to the Premier League in 2014.

Klopp spoke the club's website and said "I have followed Sadio for a lot of years  since his impressive performances in the Olympics in 2012."

Klopp however admitted his interest in Mane did not rest at the Olympic stage as he said he "watched his development in Austria" at Salzburg and "during his time at Southampton."

He continued to say that he has "spoken to the staff a lot about him" since coming to the club, and has "always felt he could be a very good signing for us". Speaking about Mane's qualities, Klopp explained that "he has a lot of quality, works hard and has a very good goal-scoring record".

Mane at the Olympics

Mane battles for possession with Great Britain's Ryan Giggs in 2012 (image:propaganda.photoshelter.com)
Mane battles for possession with Great Britain's Ryan Giggs in 2012 (image:propaganda.photoshelter.com)

With Klopp admitting he took a keen interest in the 24-year-old during his time in Olympic football just how well did the forward play to attract the German's attention.

The forward featured and started in every match while at the tournament before they were knocked out 4-2 by eventual winners Mexico in the quarter-final.

Senegal finished second in their group behind Great Britain as they drew 1-1 with the side that included Craig Bellamy, Ryan Giggs and current Liverpool teammates Joe Allen and Daniel Sturridge.

Although the 5ft 8in striker failed to register a goal at the tournament it was his impressive work rate that caught Klopp's eye and it was continued to attract the German, enough to make the player his most expensive purchase during his managerial career.

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About the author
Joel Lampkin
Sports Journalist from Chester University, Professional wrestling writer. Contact [email protected]