Hoffenheim chief Alexander Rosen has explained to fans the decision to sell Roberto Firmino.

The Brazilian star became the second most expensive signing in the Reds' history after putting pen-to-paper on a long-term Anfield contract yesterday.

"Many people at TSG have helped to make Roberto Firmino the player he is today," Rosen told Kicker.

"TSG Hoffenheim needs to make such transfers to ensure the profitability of the club.

"He is a big loss for our team, but we are convinced that we will have an exciting squad without Roberto.

"The money will not change our transfer plans. We planned our squad long-term and independently of the Firmino transfer.

We want players that can take the next step in their careers here and which we can lift onto the next level."