Raheem Sterling became the most expensive English footballer in history when he signed for Manchester City from Liverpool on a five-year contract.
The 20-year-old completed his move to the 2014 Premier League champions after passing a medical in a deal worth an initial £44million but could rise to £49 million.
The forecast move away from Anfield appeared imminent at the weekend as Sterling stayed behind when Liverpool flew out for their tour of Thailand, Australia and Malaysia.
City manager Manuel Pellegrini rated his marquee signing as “one of the best attacking players in world football”.
The Chilean said: “He is a young player with outstanding ability, and I am sure the Manchester City fans will be very excited about seeing him in action for the team.”
A statement released on City’s official website, www.mcfc.co.uk, confirmed: “Manchester City are delighted to announce Raheem Sterling has joined the club on a five-year deal.
“The 20-year-old England international’s transfer is a club record fee for an English player and he also becomes City’s record signing.”
The Jamaican-born Londoner assumes the most expensive English footballer mantle from Andy Carroll, who moved from Newcastle to Liverpool for £35 million but never lived up to the tag.
Sterling, who will wear the No 7 shirt, is now second only to Welshman Gareth Bale on the all-time most expensive British player chart.