Liverpool confirmed that star forward Luis Suarez will be moving to Spain next season after the club struck an €80-million transfer agreement with FC Barcelona.

Liverpool said in a statement that Suarez, who is currently serving a four-month ban after biting Italy's Giorgio Chiellini in the 2014 FIFA World Cup, is set to finalize a five-year deal with Barcelona after the usual examinations needed for the deal.

"Liverpool FC confirms that Luis Suarez will be leaving the club after a transfer agreement was reached with FC Barcelona," the club said in a statement. "The player now has permission to complete the usual formalities, which will then conclude the transfer. We would like to thank Luis for his contribution and the role he played in helping bring Champions League football back to Anfield."

Suarez, who will not be able to play for Barcelona until his suspension ends in October, led Liverpool to a second-place finish in the Barclays Premier League last season.

The 27-year-old forward netted 31 goals and had 12 assists in 33 Premier League games with Liverpool, who fell two points shy of capturing the league title last season.

Suarez also confirmed his transfer in a statement, expressing hope that Liverpool fans will understand why he decided to have a change of scenery, while also adding that Reds fans have nothing to worry about because the club is still in good hands under the leadership of Brendan Rodgers.

"I hope you can all understand why I have made this decision," Suarez said in a statement. "This club did all they could to get me to stay, but playing and living in Spain, where my wife's family live, is a lifelong dream and ambition. I believe now the timing is right.

"I wish Brendan Rodgers and the team well for the future. The club is in great hands and I'm sure will be successful again next season."

Barcelona, who recently sold Alexis Sanchez to Arsenal, also announced the deal, saying that the Uruguay international will travel to Barcelona next week to complete his physicals and sign the long-term deal.

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