Liverpool pinch Riise from Fulham

John Arne Riise has signed a five-year contract with Liverpool after agreeing personal terms and passing a medical.

But the transfer has not been finalised as Liverpool and Monaco have yet to agree on a fee for the 20-year-old Norwegian international.

But Riise is hopeful Reds boss Gerard Houllier will finalise the deal later today. Riise told icons.com: "I have signed a five-year contract with Liverpool after agreeing personal terms and undergoing a medical with the club this afternoon.

"However, this is not the end of the matter because for the deal to be finalised. Liverpool and Monaco have to agree on a transfer fee for me.

"The Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier is now in Monaco negotiating with representatives from my current club and I hope they will agree a deal by the end of today."

Riise, also a target for Fulham, was a regular member of the 1999-2000 title-winning Monaco side. But he fell out of favour with coach Claude Puel after admitting his desire to leave.