New Liverpool signing Raul Meireles says he has finally achieved his dream of being able to play in the Premier League after arriving from FC Porto.

The 27-year-old spent five seasons with the Portuguese giants, winning four league titles in that time, but has now joined the Reds in an £11.5 million (€14m) deal.

Portugal international midfielder Meireles has signed a four-year contract at Anfield and now spoken of his delight after the deal officially went through on Saturday night.

“It has been a long time coming but finally I have achieved my dream of playing in England," he told the club’s official website.

"Liverpool are an historic club and I am happy for the move. Roy Hodgson was key because he worked so hard to get me.

“I hope the fans will one day remember me for my success at Liverpool.”

Liverpool have also signed Christian Poulsen in the middle of the park to compensate for the losses of Javier Mascherano – the Argentina captain being on the verge of completing his move to Barcelona - and Alberto Aquilani, who has joined Juventus on loan.

Meireles will be presented to the Anfield crowd ahead of their Premier League game with West Bromwich Albion later on Sunday.