Ferguson took issue with Benitez over his transfer spending claims

Sir Alex Ferguson expects Rafa Benitez to spend big in the transfer market after signing a new deal at Liverpool.

Manchester United boss Ferguson said of his rival: "I think you will see Rafa producing an absolute spending spree, now he has signed a new contract.

"There's talk about a recession but I don't think there will be one at Liverpool this year."

After protracted negotiations, Benitez agreed a new deal earlier this week which ties him to Liverpool until 2014.

Ferguson also disputed the Spaniard's recent claim that United have massively outspent Liverpool on transfers in recent years.

He said United's own figures showed Liverpool had spent £24m more in overall terms.

"He's well ahead of us in spending in the last five years," Ferguson claimed.

In terms of net spending - taking into account income from sales - the clubs are much the same.

606: DEBATE I was wondering where this £30m figure for Rafa's 'war chest' came from? DOMKAT1

Liverpool's net spending over five years on players is £82.5m and United's has been £85.5m. Meanwhile, Chelsea spent £154.8m net on players during that time and Arsenal just £3.4m.

Ferguson claimed his philosophy included developing young players as well as signing stars, while Benitez was more focused on bringing in established players.

He added: "We have signed 18 players in the last five years and eight of those have been young players.

"There's a balance, it's about doing the thing correctly. We like to try to develop young players and we will always do that. That's the nature of the club.

"Other clubs are maybe different and obviously Rafa has a different philosophy from mine.

"But that's the great thing about football - everyone has a different way of doing things."

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