Charlton Athletic defender Joe Gomez’s move to Liverpool was finally announced on Saturday morning.

The fee was the now standard ‘undisclosed’ but is believed to be in the region of £7 million plus add on and sell on clauses.

The 18-year-old Catford born defender has signed a 5-year deal at Anfield.

Gomez made his debut for the Addicks in the Capital One Cup tie against Colchester at The Valley in August, and went on to make a total of 18 starts and 6 substitute appearances in all competitions.

He was initially used as Chris Solly’s deputy at right-back, but his versatility saw him play in the centre of defence, as well as at left-back during the course of the season.

Gomez’s favoured position is central defence and that is undoubtedly where his future lies.

He is likely to continue his development by playing a season in the Championship, with Derby his likeliest destination, though a return to The Valley is not out of the question.

Charlton CEO Katrien Meire had this to say after the deal was completed:

“It is with a heavy heart that we let him go, but we wish him all the best.

“Joe is a very talented and humble young man and he has proven to be a shining light for our academy and a role model for all of the young players at our club.

“He is another fine example of what our fantastic academy is capable of.

“Joe signed a new three-year contract with us last year and gave us an impressive first season in professional football, but with such huge ambitions, we could not stand in the way of this big opportunity which he wanted to take.

“Joe goes to Liverpool with our blessing and we wish him luck in what will surely be a very successful career,” said Meire.

Gomez was equally fulsome in his praise of the Addicks:

“I’ve been here since I was 10 years old and it’s been a great experience.

“The club have always looked after me and I will always be grateful.

“I’m excited for the new challenge at Liverpool and it’s an opportunity that I’ve only been given thanks to the experience that Charlton have given me.

“I want to say thank you to everyone, especially the supporters.

“From the moment I made my debut in the first team I felt at home and I was able to just focus on playing.

“I’m proud to have come from this academy. People like [Academy Manager] Steve Avory have helped me all the way through and I will always be thankful to Charlton for making me the player I am.

“I will never forget where I came from,” said Gomez.

The Addicks will now be looking to bring some new faces in during the next few days.