The Los Angeles Galaxy announced that Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard will sign an 18-month deal with the club when he makes his move from Barclays Premier League to Major League Soccer in July.

The Galaxy said in statement that Gerrard has already agreed to make the move, completing their pursuit of the Liverpool talisman who has been on their radar since Landon Donovan announced his retirement.

Los Angeles have been a dominant force in the MLS over the past several seasons and Galaxy head coach and general manager Bruce Arena said that Gerrard will help them maintain their status as one of the top teams in the league moving forward.

"He is one of the most decorated players in the world and will join our team with a wealth of success playing at the highest level of the sport," Arena said of Gerrard in a statement. "Steven will be an excellent example to our young players and we're excited to add him and his leadership to an already talented roster."

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, but Los Angeles Times reported that Gerrard will earn $9 million during his 18-month stay with the Galaxy. He will earn $3 million this year and $6 million in 2016.

Gerrard announced last week that he will not return to Liverpool when his contract expires after the current season, signaling the end of an era at Anfield. The 34-year-old has spent his entire club career with Liverpool -- the team he led to several titles, including one Champions League along with two FA Cup and UEFA Super Cup titles.

Gerrard, who will join 2014 MLS Most Valuable Player Robbie Keane and star defender Omar Gonzales as the Galaxy's designated players, said that leaving Liverpool was a difficult decision, but he wanted to take a new challenge before the twilight of his illustrious career.

"The time's right for myself and my family for the change, for the fresh challenge," Gerrard told LA Times. "I've been here for a long time. I've given an awful lot back to this club. But I now I feel it's the time for a fresh break and to try something different."

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