Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has confirmed his interest in Joe Allen, but believes it may not be straightforward to sign the Swansea midfielder.
Rodgers on Wednesday had confirmed he was interested in signing Fulham midfielder Clint Dempsey, but it has been thought for some time that 22-year-old Allen is also on his radar.
When Rodgers was appointed as Liverpool's new manager, it was agreed that he would be unable to sign any players from the Liberty Stadium for the next twelve months.
The Swans are, however, believed to be prepared to sell to Rodgers, providing their valuation is met.
However, the 39-year-old has suggested that a deal may not be able to happen quickly.
"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 ESPN.
"He [Allen] 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.
"As a manager you want them in sooner rather than later, but the main thing is to get them in before the beginning of the season. If we do that, our job will be done."
Allen's agent had earlier dismissed reports that his client, who is valued at around £15million, had this week handed in a transfer request (see Related Articles).