LONDON (AFP) - Liverpool have signed Spain winger Albert Riera from Spanish first division side Espanyol for an undisclosed fee to boost their attacking options, the English club said on Monday.

Riera, 26, has signed a four-year contract at Anfield after rejecting approaches from a number of other clubs including neighbours Everton.

The winger, who has made five appearances for his country, has already had a taste of the Premier League having played for Manchester City on loan in the 2005-06 season.

"Riera has the qualities we were looking for," said Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez.

"He's a left footer who normally plays on the left wing, he's good in the air, strong, powerful and a good crosser of the ball."

The confirmation of Riera's arrival, which came on the final day of the transfer window, came as Liverpool announced that Spanish striker Fernando Torres will be out for "between two and three weeks" with a torn hamstring.