Rafa Benitez says Liverpool have enough money for one
more signing after splashing £17 million on Portsmouth’s Glen
Johnson.
The Pompey full back has agreed a move to The Reds and is
expected to put pen-to-paper in the next 48 hours.
The transfer represents a sizeable chunk of Benitez’s allotted
funds, but the Liverpool boss says there is room for at least one
more.
“We have a plan,” the Spaniard told the Liverpool Echo.
“We can sign one more player if necessary, but
that’s without any players leaving.”
The arrival of Johnson could pave the way for Alvaro Arbeloa’s
move to Real Madrid.
The Spain international has been linked with a summer switch to
the Bernabeu, with the Spanish giants reportedly prepared to pay
around £8 million.
Benitez says he wants Arbeloa to remain at Anfield, but given
his current contract situation, he may be forced to consider
offers.
“Alvaro Arbeloa has had a very good season but he has one year
left on his contract,” said Benitez.
“If he signs that will be good because we will have more
competition, but if we get a good offer we will have to consider
it.”
Benitez revealed he over-paid to secure Johnson’s
signature, but feels the England right back was a
necessary addition.
“Sometimes you have to spend a little bit more,” he added.
“You can’t compete in the top four of The Premier League unless
you spend some money.
“We were looking for a player of quality and also somebody who
is British because of the new Champions League rules.
“Glen Johnson fits both categories.”
setanta.