Brendan Rodgers has confirmed Liverpool's interest in Swansea midfielder Joe Allen but claims no negotiations are taking place.
Former Liberty Stadium boss Rodgers has already taken ex-Swansea player Fabio Borini to Anfield and is considering another raid.
Allen's creative midfield instincts are high on Liverpool's wanted list as they set about rebuilding and Rodgers is keen to complete quick deals ahead of the new season.
The Northern Irishman has admitted making enquiries about Fulham's Clint Dempsey and the Liverpool boss has now gone public with more transfer plans.
Rodgers, who succeeded the sacked Kenny Dalglish this summer, said when talking about Allen while on a pre-season tour in the USA: "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.
"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.
"We hope we're close to some deals. I need to evaluate the players we have and assess the squad and bring some in to bring freshness to the group.
"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."
