Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers says Mamadou Sakho's big price-tag won't guarantee the former PSG defender a place in his line-up.
Managing director Ian Ayre described the £18 million capture as their "marquee signing".
"It doesn't matter one iota. It is not me that puts the price on them," said Rodgers.
"You judge the player on what he is giving you every single day. That's why I think it was unfair on the likes of Jordan Henderson.
"Jordan didn't set the price tag (£16million) on his head - he came in for a lot of money as a young player.
"He's shown over time and with confidence that you can be a very good player.
"For me it doesn't matter whether it was £1, a free transfer or £50million.
"You want good players with strong mentalities, players that are willing to be brave on the ball and want to win games - irrespective of the price."
