Reds agree Johnson deal

22 June 2009 18:06
Liverpool have confirmed they have agreed a deal with Portsmouth to sign Glen Johnson. The Reds have beaten Chelsea to the signature of the England international after both clubs agreed fees with Portsmouth earlier this month. Portsmouth were resigned to losing Johnson with the player keen on joining a larger club to enhance his bid of keeping his place in the England squad for next summer's World Cup finals. Johnson was given permission to speak to both clubs about a move last week and the full-back has decided to make the switch to Anfield rather than return to Stamford Bridge for a second spell. A club statement read: "Liverpool FC confirmed this evening that they had reached an agreement with Portsmouth Football Club and with Glen Johnson for the transfer of the player to Anfield." The deal is a boost for Reds boss Rafa Benitez as he has won the race for Johnson's signature ahead of title rivals Chelsea. Johnson will be Liverpool's first major signing of the summer, but his arrival is sure to cast doubts over Alvaro Arbeloa's long-term future on Merseyside.

Source: SKY_Sports