West Ham, Liverpool and Man City make big signings

West Ham, Liverpool and Man City were the latest English Premier League sides to wade into the transfer market each signing big name players expected to make impacts in the coming season.  Liverpool grabbed Glen Johnson from Portsmouth in a £17.5m move that has drawn criticism from many as being excessive. 

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez responded "Sometimes you have to spend a little bit more. You can't compete in the top four of the Premier League unless you spend some money.  We were looking for a player of quality and also somebody who is British because of the new Champions League rules. Glen Johnson fits both categories.''

Manchester City swooped for striker Roque Santa Cruz, who when healthy, is a proven goalscorer in the EPL.   Santa Cruz could be joined by Carlos Tevez who is rumoured on his way after his Manchester United loan ends Wednesday.

West Ham United went to Italy and grabbed forward Luis Jimenez from Inter Milan on a lona agreement for one year.  The Hammers moved quickly to fend off interest from other teams for the player, who will officially join on July 1 provided he passes a medical.