Liverpool to Sign Glen Johnson: But Who at Anfield Will Have To Make Way?

Liverpool have agreed on a fee to sign Glen Johnson and Anfield seems the most likely destination for him this summer.

Should the deal go through, Liverpool will have to offload at least one of their current right-back options. And the rather high fee to sign Johnson can only act as a catalyst to sell a player or two, reducing the overall cost to purchase Johnson.

Currently, Liverpool have three players in the right-back position; Alvaro Arbeloa, Philipp Degen, and Stephen Darby.

So who will be the one making way for Glen Johnson if he does end up in Liverpool?

Alvaro Arbeloa

Why he is leaving:

Arbeloa has been reported to be homesick and the recent rumor linking him with Real Madrid make him the most likely of the trio to depart from Liverpool this summer. A good offer from Real Madrid may be too irresistable for Rafa Benitez.

Why he is staying:

He could still be part of Rafa's plan as there is a possibility of Rafa wanting Arbeloa to get a contract extension. Arbeloa is versatile and can play anywhere along the back four. Therefore, he is still needed in the team to give Rafa more options when defenders are tired and/or injured.

Philipp Degen

Why he is leaving:

Degen spent almost the whole of last season nursing injuries after injuries. Since he was signed as a free agent, selling him would only make a profit. Being injury prone makes him very likely to leave as well, but it could be hard to find a buyer.

Why he is staying:

Degen hasn't really shown his abilities in Liverpool. He is a full-back capable of pushing forward, providing width to Liverpool's game-play. If he is injury-free next season, fans may be able to see the best that Degen has to offer.

Stephen Darby

Why he is leaving:

Basically, I can't think of any reason to sell him. But he could be sent out on loan if neither Arbeloa nor Degen leaves.

Why he is staying:

Darby is still young and Liverpool needs more English players. So, he will most probably be kept on the team for the time being. Many would also want to see Darby getting involved in first team more next season.

Glen Johnson's transfer to Liverpool is yet to be finalised but the deal is almost done. Since the agreed fee by both sides is pretty high (even some parties claimed that Liverpool "overpaid"), Rafa could be forced to sell one or two players.

Another option for Rafa would be to keep all three right-backs in the team at the moment and send Andrea Dossena back to Italy. Whoever is making way, Glen Johnson's arrival is sure to be something fans look forward to.