Liverpool defender Dejan Lovren has signed a new contract.

The Croatian defender has overcome a difficult start to his Anfield career to become a key player, forming a strong relationship with Joel Matip.

And the 27-year-old has been rewarded with a new deal.

He said: “I think this is one special day for me and my family.

"I think I am the happiest guy [in the world] today, it's another dream come true. It was always my dream to stay as long as possible at one club that I love – and that is Liverpool.

“After all that happened in the beginning, in the last two seasons I think I've done better than in the first season. The club has rewarded me, they believed in me and also the fans, and this is what I respect a lot after everything that happened.

“I am pleased with everything and I just want to stay here as long as possible and be a part of this family for many, many years to come."

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp was full of praise for Lovren, hailing his influence in the dressing room.

“Dejan is a big presence for us on the pitch and in the dressing room – this is wonderful news that he has committed to LFC for such a long time," Klopp told Liverpoolfc.com.

“It is our intention to build this squad around the great talent we already have. We want to keep our core together. I am really pleased Dejan has become the latest to recognise that Liverpool is a place where players can achieve their dreams and goals.

“He is an outstanding defender and someone who, I believe, still has his best times to come as a player. He has all the assets a top centre-half needs in the modern game.

“He has already enjoyed some great moments at this club, but he, like all of us, is hungry to win trophies for LFC. I love this hunger and desire and look forward to seeing it translate to great performances for the team in the coming years."