LIVERPOOL TRANSFER NEWS: Allen, Deulofeu, Skrtel, and Sterling Involved in Speculation
The British Press continues to speculate about the possibility of Liverpool adding two new players to their squad, while cutting ties from a prominent one.
Martin Skrtel has been linked to a move out of Anfield for several weeks, and the latest update has Napoli interested in the centre back, by Daily Mail. Both the Times and Daily Mail have also reported on Skrtel as a Zenit St. Petersburg and Manchester City target.
The 27-year-old Slovakian has been with Liverpool since 2008, after leaving Zenit on a £6.5 million deal. Daily Mirror recently reported that City were preparing a £20 million fee.
New manager Brendan Rodgers has rubbished the speculation surrounding Skrtel.
No. I've heard nothing from any other club, said Rodgers, according to ESPN. Martin has been fantastic and seems happy and contented. He fits into my plans and ideas. I will fight as hard as I can to keep the players that I want here and he is one of them.
While Skrtel status at Anfield is uncertain, there continues to be discussion about the addition of Joe Allen. The Reds are set to bid £10 million for the Swansea City attacking midfielder, according to Metro. Daily Star recently valued Allen at £15 million.
The 22-year-old would be reunited with Rodgers, his manager at Swansea, if he makes the move to Liverpool. Allen has been with Swansea since 2007, and has been a fixture for Wales, as well.
Liverpool also want to bolster their position on the wing, and are pursuing Gerard Deulofeu. The 18-year-old Spaniard has been praised for his ball control and speed, with Barcelona's B team.
According to The Express, the Reds are in competition with Queens Park Rangers for Deulofeu. Liverpool are bidding £7.5 million for the forward, while QPR are interested in a loan.
Deulofeu has expressed an interest in staying with Barcelona, so a loan to London might be a strong option.
Meanwhile, Raheem Sterling appears destined to be loaned out. The 17-year-old is considered a top talent with tremendous potential, but doesn't figure to see much action with the first team. Rodgers apparently has high hopes for Sterling, but believe he needs more grooming.
One of the things I've done over my career is manage the expectation of young players, Rodgers said. The reality is he's still very young. Raheem is a talent and he has certainly shown qualities but he's not ready for the first team yet.
There are very few players in the world who get into a Premier League team at 17, never mind a top club. It will be a decision for me over the next few weeks whether he stays and is involved or he goes on a loan period.
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