Glen Johnson deal confirmed

Liverpool FC have confirmed they have reached an agreement with both Portsmouth FC and England international Glen Johnson himself.

Johnson, 24, will now become Rafa Benitez’s first major signing of the summer, in a deal which is believed to be worth around £17.5m.

Portsmouth last week accepted bids from both Liverpool and Chelsea but reports immediately suggested Johnson was keen to move to Anfield rather than try a second spell at Stamfrd Bridge.

After missing out on Gareth Barry to Man City last month this will be a huge boost to the club and manager. Hopefully it will also act as a signal of intent to those players who may be lured away by other clubs.

Johnson is believed to have returned early from his holidays and undergone a medical on Merseyside over the weekend. The terms of the contract have yet to be confirmed.

Johnson’s arrival will no doubt see an increase in speculation surrounding current first choice right-back Alvaro Arbeloa. The Spaniard has been linked with a move back to Spain with Real Madrid.