Liverpool’s swoop to sign Ben Davies from Preston was a bolt from the blue yesterday.

But now it looks all set to be done, with the central defender set for a medical today.

The Reds have a reputation for structuring deals smartly and not paying too much money up front.

Sky Sports News have reported on their transfer liveblog how much the club will be paying initially for the Preston man.

Preston North End v Cardiff City - Sky Bet Championship
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At 10:12am on their transfer liveblog, Sky Sports said: “Preston’s Ben Davies is having a medical at Liverpool this morning. It might not be the only new arrival at Liverpool today.

“We can tell you a little bit about the deal to sign Davies. We’re told a total of £500,000 up front. Structured add-ons as well worth up to £1.1m. That’s based on success with the club, appearances, even an England appearance clause as well and a 20 per cent sell-on on profit clause in the deal.

 

“Personal terms are also being sorted today as well. There are no problems anticipated there.

“Of course, we know that Celtic were convinced they had him on a pre-contract and they were understood to be ready to go in with an offer, cash up front, to get him today, but Liverpool nipped in ahead of them. Also, we understand there was interest from Bournemouth, Sheffield United and Burnley, but it is Liverpool who look to have got Davies now.”

Manchester United v Liverpool: The Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round
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In financial terms, this one looks like a low-risk deal for Liverpool.

£500,000 up front is a drop in the ocean for a club of Liverpool’s size and Davies’ arrival should allow Jordan Henderson to return to midfield.

Davies will hope for a long Anfield career, but even if he were to leave in the summer, the Reds would likely make a profit.

It remains to be seen how Davies will adjust to the step up but it’s the opportunity of a lifetime for him.

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