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.”