Liverpool Transfer Rumours: Dempsey, Allen, Johnson and Agger Involved in Latest Speculation

Brendan Rodgers has completed his second signing as Liverpool boss with the club announcing the capture of Joe Allen from Swansea. The 22-year-old is, of course, well known to Rodgers having been one of his key players at the Liberty Stadium.

Allen has signed a long-term contract with the Reds after being pursued for much of the summer. It has been widely reported that the deal went through after Liverpool met Swansea's £15 million release clause.

The acquisition of Allen represents an important capture for Rodgers as he seeks to implement his short-passing philosophy at Anfield.

"I'm absolutely delighted that Joe has made the decision to come with us on this journey, Rodgers told the Liverpool website.

"Joe is a player whose profile will fit perfectly with the ideas of this group. His ability to control and dominate the ball is an important ingredient in our attempt to gain success on the field."

Likewise, Allen spoke of his admiration for Rodgers.

"I have a lot of faith that Brendan Rodgers can bring success, that's one of the reasons I'm here," he admitted.

"I wanted to be part of this project, his project, and I've really got a good feeling-as I'm sure all the players here have-that this football club is going to go from strength to strength in the next couple of seasons."

Allen, who follows Fabio Borini into the club this summer, is unlikely to be the last arrival before the transfer window closes at the end of the month.

Rodgers is known to be keen to add Clint Dempsey, although has been left frustrated by Fulham's valuation of the United States international.

Liverpool may have received some encouragement in their pursuit, however, according to the Daily Telegraph. A report claims that the Reds are willing to allow Charlie Adam to join the Cottagers on part-exchange potentially helping to force through a deal.

Dempsey was the top-scoring midfielder in the Premier League last season, but the 29-year-old has just a year remaining on his contract.

Both the Telegraph and Guardian also report that Rodgers remains keen to add width to his side, with Adam Johnson his preferred target. The England international has struggled to hold down a regular place in the Manchester City first team and could well be available this summer.

Although left-footed Johnson has established himself on the right flank and could potentially be a replacement for the departed Dirk Kuyt.

There remains a possibility that Johnson will arrive as part of the deal that sees Liverpool defender Daniel Agger heading in the opposite direction. The Dane continues to be linked with a move to the Premier League champions, although City are currently unwilling to approach Liverpool's £25 million valuation.

"There's been contact from City, yes," Rodgers said, according to the Daily Mail. "But it's nowhere near the valuation of what the player is worth and you can only consider something like that if it is going to benefit you.

"Of course you might lose a top player but if it benefits you going forward-and you can make two or three steps because of it-you may have to consider it."