Source: Daily_Mail
Liverpool accept unsettled defender Glen Johnson wants to leave Anfield
Liverpool are stepping up their extensive search for a right back after reluctantly accepting that Glen Johnson is intent on moving abroad in the new year.[LNB]Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp is a confirmed admirer of Johnson, after taking him from Chelsea to Portsmouth in August 2007, and will be among the first to respond to the England defender's imminent availability.[LNB] Wanted: Glen Johnson[LNB] But while a return to familiar territory may appear an appealing option for the London-born 26-yearold, Sportsmail understands he wants to broaden his horizons by living and playing on the continent.[LNB] Juventus are desperate to accommodate his wishes and have asked whether they can sign him in January, despite only being able to meet Liverpool's asking price of around £12million at the end of the season. Intriguingly, Liverpool may try to exploit Juve's lack of funds by requesting that Brazilian-born Italy marksman Amauri is included in any deal for Johnson.[LNB] Finding a strike partner for Fernando Torres is another pressing transfer priority for Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson, and Amauri is described as a British-style centre forward.[LNB] Juve bosses were considering offering their in-form forward to Fiorentina, in exchange for Alberto Gilardino, but may now see him as a way of landing their main January target, Johnson. Amauri's name was raised during a recent meeting between Juve technical director Fabio Paratici and Liverpool director of football strategy Damien Comolli.[LNB] After stressing their eagerness to sign Johnson, but admitting it could only be on loan to begin with, Paratici indicated a willingness to part with Amauri once he has recovered from injury.[LNB] Versatile: Agger[LNB] Real Madrid made an approach for Johnson in the summer, and though they failed to agree a fee, it prompted the full back to start taking Spanish lessons. Real could still re-enter the fray, although Johnson may have to switch Spanish for Italian should Juve come up with an acceptable proposal in their negotiations with Liverpool.[LNB] With Johnson edging nearer the exit at Anfield, Liverpool have been scouring Europe for prospective replacements. Rod Fanni, out of contract at Rennes at the end of the season and wanted by Marseille, has been strongly linked, and Liverpool have also taken a close look at Lazio's Stephan Lichtsteiner.[LNB] Juve have been alerted to uncertainty over Daniel Agger's Anfield future, and asked about his availability, and they have reiterated their wish to turn Alberto Aquilani's season-long loan into a permanent deal. Liverpool also have a left back on their wanted list, amid misgivings over Paul Konchesky's form, and may still make a bid for Aston Villa's Ashley Young.[LNB] Juve line up triple raid on Liverpool for Aquilani, Johnson and AggerNewcastle v LIVERPOOL: Fernando Torres set to reclaim place off Ryan Babel[LNB] Explore more:People: Glen Johnson, Harry Redknapp, Ashley Young, Daniel Agger, Paul Konchesky, Roy Hodgson, Fernando Torres, Alberto Aquilani Places: Chelsea, Liverpool, London, United Kingdom, Europe
