Liverpool have completed the signing of Senegal World Cup star El-Hadji Diouf. The striker, who met his new team-mates for the first time today, has joined Liverpool on a five year deal.

Meanwhile, the arrival of Leeds midfielder Lee Bowyer has yet to be confirmed by Liverpool chiefs. Although a œ9 million fee has been agreed between the clubs there is now the possibility of Nicky Barmby moving in the opposite direction.

Complications regarding a fee for Barmby, who Liverpool value at almost double the œ3 million being offered by cash-strapped Leeds, could scupper any deal.

The chance of a reunion with Terry Venables, now manager at Leeds, would suit Anfield misfit Barmby. The 28-year-old has struggled with injuries and loss of form since making the move across Merseyside two years ago.

The former England international would also offer a cut-price solution to the vacancy on the right side left by Bowyer. Venables is also known to have been tracking œ7 million-rated Australian Brett Emerton.

Another Liverpool winger whose future has been placed in doubt by the possible signing of Bowyer is Vladimir Smicer.

“If Lee Bowyer comes here it would be good for the club but not for me,” the Czech international said.

Smicer had been set to sign new three-year contract before news of Bowyer’s arrival surfaced but is now believed to be reconsidering his options.