• Premier League

Laudrup won't block Allen Liverpool switch

ESPN staff
July 21, 2012
Joe Allen is valued at £15 million © Getty Images
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Swansea boss Michael Laudrup is still yet to receive an offer from Liverpool for midfielder Joe Allen, but admits he would not stand in the way of the 22-year-old should he wish to leave.

Liverpool have been linked to a £15 million move for Allen, who was the fulcrum of Swansea's midfield under newly-appointed Reds boss Brendan Rodgers last season. It is understood Rodgers has verbally agreed not to move for any of his former stars, unless the player expresses a wish to leave the Liberty Stadium.

Laudrup admits he would ideally keep hold of his ball-playing midfielder but, having signed Michu and Jonathan de Guzman, he would not block a Liverpool approach should one arrive.

"I haven't spoken to Joe since I have taken over. I haven't spoken to any of the three Olympics players and we have not had any contact from Liverpool," Laudrup said.

"I am in contact with the chairman every day. We agree that if there will be an approach then we will have to talk to the player. We cannot just answer 100% yes or no without having talked to the player.

"That's a problem because he has to concentrate on the Olympics but we will have to deal with that if and when it comes to that. You can force players to stay but how does that help? It doesn't work like that. It's better to find a solution that suits both parties."

Rodgers recently indicated that he would be interested in signing Allen, as he attempts to mould Liverpool into a side that can challenge for Champions League qualification this season.

"I have a great relationship with Swansea but, if there is a market for any of the players, I would like to be in that market," Rodgers told skysports.com. "They respect that. He is a very talented player, which everyone knows, but there is nothing more at the moment.

"When players come to a club such as Liverpool, it's never straightforward. There are always other barriers and difficulties. At this moment, there are ongoing negotiations on a few targets."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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