Southampton and Stoke to battle for Liverpool misfit
Published:
Southampton and Stoke are among a trio of clubs chasing out of favour Liverpool midfielder Joe Allen.
According to reports new Reds manager Jurgen Klopp has said the former Swansea man is not in his plans for the Anfield club and can be sold in January.
The Saints and the Potters are both thought to be interested in the 22-capped Wales international but both sides will face competition from this season’s surprise package Leicester City.
Allen made the move from the Liberty Stadium to Anfield in 2012 in a deal worth £15m after making an impression on Brendan Rodgers during his time with the Swans.
However, the 25-year-old has failed to cement a first team position since making the move, progressively featuring in fewer games than the 27 league appearances he made in 2012-13.
Allen has featured in just three league games this season and while there will be a temptation to stay and fight for his place moving may be the best option with the European Championships on the horizon.
Southampton are bracing themselves for bids for Senegalese ace Sadio Mane after a string of dazzling displays, with Manchester United among those rumoured to be interested, and Allen could prove a cut price replacement.
Likewise, Stoke manager Mark Hughes is keen to add to his midfield as the Potters look to secure a top 10 finish or better and the former Wales striker will hope his status as a Welsh icon will help persuade Allen that his future lies at the Britannia.
Liverpool travel to Chelsea this weekend as the 11/4 underdogs and with Klopp looking to secure a first league win as Reds boss Allen is unlikely to feature – proof that his future may just lay elsewhere.
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