Fulham completed the double signing of Liverpool’s out-of-favour winger Lazar Markovic, in a free transfer, and Hoffenheim’s Norwegian midfielder Havard Nordtveit, on loan, late on transfer deadline day.
The deal for Markovic is a permanent one just until the end of the season, having been released by Liverpool. The surprise move was confirmed almost 90 minutes after the January transfer window’s 11pm deadline.
The duo join the Cottagers on the same day suspended striker Aboubakar Kamara left on loan for Turkish club Yeni Malatyaspor.
Having already signed former Liverpool man Ryan Babel on loan earlier this month, they have now added Markovic to their ranks after “receiving very good recommendations from Aleksandar Mitrovic” – his fellow Serbia international.
Markovic has been at Liverpool since 2014 after signing from Benfica for £20m but has failed to live up to his price tag, making just 34 appearances for the Reds.
The 24-year-old spent much of his time at Anfield out on loan, having temporary spells at Fenerbahce, Sporting Lisbon, Hull and Anderlecht, but has now left Liverpool for good after being released from his contract.
Meanwhile, versatile Norwegian Nordtveit has also joined the Cottagers on loan for the remainder of the season.
The 28-year-old previously played in England for West Ham, making 21 appearances in 2016-17, and can play in central defensive as well as a defensive midfielder.
“I’m really happy to have the opportunity to come back to the Premier League and hopefully help Fulham to a safe place,” said Nordtveit.
“That would be a something that I would put high on my list in my career.”