Liverpool Transfer News: Christian Benteke Fee Named, Glen Johnson Expects Exit

Aston Villa will reportedly place a €42 million (£30.46 million) price tag on powerful striker Christian Benteke, a sum that may act as a deterrent to Liverpool and other suitors.

Greg Stobart of Goal reports the aforementioned valuation and interest from the Reds. Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers bemoaned his side's lack of goals after Tuesday's 1-0 loss to Hull City, saying the side need "one or two" top-class signings to make a difference, according to David Anderson of the Mirror.

Benteke could fulfill one of these roles. He is a powerful hold-up player who is growing more tactically astute by the season. The Belgian scores a range of goals—tap-ins, headers, powerful drives inside the box and free-kicks—and could excel with Raheem Sterling and Philippe Coutinho feeding him.

Tim Ireland/Associated Press

The 24-year-old's nine goals in his last eight matches, per WhoScored.com, signals an explosive return to form. Tim Sherwood's arrival at Villa Park has made all the difference, with the Midlands side now playing faster-paced counter-attacking football, which allows numbers to quickly burst forward.

An approximate £30 million investment would be hefty for Liverpool, particularly if Champions League football isn't achieved. Rodgers spent around £100 million last summer, per Patrick Collins of the Mail On Sunday, far more than the £75 million received for Luis Suarez. However, the boss needs further backing to improve the club's fortunes.

B/R UK's Sam Tighe looked at alternatives to Benteke:

Eris Kismet, Benteke's agent, confirmed he is yet to fend off inquiries. Sky Sports (h/t Stobart) reported his comments:

"At the moment, there is no interest (in Benteke). Every player and staff member is concentrated on avoiding relegation, anything else is just a distraction. 

"I know everyone wants the same thing because I watch the games and I think Aston Villa are playing the best football in England right now."

Johnson Expects to Leave Anfield

Rui Vieira/Associated Press

Right-back Glen Johnson has struggled for first-team appearances this season, and despite a recent return to the lineup, doesn't expect to maintain his place on Merseyside next year.

The Press Association (h/t ESPN) reports comments from the England international: "Everyone knows where I am. (But) I have no contract, and I don't think that will change."

Johnson has made 13 Premier League starts this season, noted by WhoScored, but was rendered useless when Rodgers switched to a back three in December. The recent return to a traditional back four has seen him receive greater game time, but Liverpool's four points in five domestic matches has left them seven points off fourth-placed Manchester United.

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Ultimately, making it to that fourth spot might determine if Benteke is viable and if Johnson is needed. Benteke has remained on the cusp of a big move for over a year now and can only look to develop if he manages to find a Champions League-standard club.

Another side will eventually snap him up if the Reds don't, an occurrence that will undoubtedly frustrate supporters who watched Liverpool sign Mario Balotelli and Rickie Lambert during the summer. With a little more ambition, the team could have added a single world-class star instead.