Liverpool have confirmed Jorg Schmadtke as their new sporting director.
Schmadtke will officially take the reins as Anfield’s key recruitment chief on June 1 following Julian Ward’s exit after barely 12 months in the position.
The former goalkeeper, 59, is set to oversee the Reds’ transfer policy for an initial three-month period before both parties will review the arrangement.
Jurgen Klopp previously offered a ringing endorsement of Schmadtke, who worked as sporting director at several Bundesliga clubs including Wolfsburg.
Fenway Sports Group president Mike Gordon said: “Firstly, I would like to welcome Jorg to Liverpool Football Club in the knowledge that he will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience into a role in which such qualities can only be beneficial both to him and us.
“Jorg will work with our football operations department as it continues to provide support for Jurgen Klopp, in keeping with our ongoing endeavour to keep growing and developing the club in all areas.
“At the same time as we welcome Jorg, we must also bid a fond farewell to Julian Ward, who has served us with unstinting diligence, fortitude and energy in a number of roles, the most recent one being sporting director.
“We wish Julian and his young family the very best for the future and thank him for everything he has done for Liverpool FC during the past 11 years.”
Schmadtke explained the reason behind his short-term arrangement to media in his native Germany in anticipation of Tuesday’s official announcement.
“Our cooperation is initially planned for three months,” he told SPORT1.
“After three months we review the cooperation. If we like each other, we can work together beyond the transfer period. Let’s see.
“Then we continue or not.”