Liverpool officially announced the signing of Philippe Coutinho from Inter Milan, with the Brazilian revealing compatriot Lucas Leiva's influence in bringing him to Anfield.

The Reds agreed a fee believed to be around £8.5 million for the 20-year-old, who put pen to paper on a long-term deal before saying he was looking forward to the challenge.

"I'm feeling very happy, it's a very important step in my career and I'm expecting to come here and play good football to give my contribution on the pitch," Coutinho told the club's official website.

"Liverpool is a great club with great players. We've always heard about Liverpool's history in Brazil. They are the club that have been interested in me and that have showed this interest so I know they believe in me and my football.

"It's a club that fans are always supporting. It's a great club accustomed to victories and with a lot of good stories in football and I'm hoping to get here and add some more."

Coutinho, who will wear the No. 10 shirt, said he spoke to fellow Brazilian Lucas Leiva, who encouraged the youngster to sign with Liverpool.

"I've been talking to him for some time and he said good things about Liverpool," Coutinho added. "He believes this might be a nice club for me and now it's happening."

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers expressed his happiness at capturing another talented youngster.

"I love players who can make the difference at the top end," Rodgers told reporters after seeing his Liverpool side play out a 2-2 draw against Arsenal.

"He's a young player with over 100-odd appearances, a lot of them at the top level. I've known about him since he was 15 years of age and watched him come through for Brazil.

"He's a wonderful talent and a great technician, he's got pace, strength and power. He's flexible - he can play in midfield or off the sides. He's a really exciting player and another great product to come into the league.

"I'm really looking forward to developing him and seeing him work. I got a good insight into him last year when he was at Espanyol, he's a real talent and a good, young, exciting player - but also a real good professional and that's key as well.

"Daniel Sturridge has been absolutely fantastic since he came in and you can see what he's added to the team.

"Coutinho is coming in as a young player who has got a lot of experience but a lot of potential as well. He's someone who can come in straight away and play because he's got the games.

"The owners have been brilliant and very supportive of what we're trying to do. As each window goes on, we'll get better and better."