Your Swansea City headlines for Friday, June 24.
Joe Allen has confirmed his departure from Stoke City after rejecting a new deal with the club.
The Wales international's contract with the Potters expires this summer, although Michael O'Neill had been keen to extend the midfielder's stay in Staffordshire. However, it has emerged that Allen turned down the chance to remain at the bet365 Stadium.
Swansea City are among a number of clubs eager to sign the free agent - who has already held talks with Russell Martin earlier this year. And the 32-year-old officially announced his exit from Stoke on Friday morning after contract talks between his representatives and the club proved unsuccessful.
Joe Allen turns down new Stoke City contract offer in significant transfer boost to Swansea City
"After six years it’s tough to be leaving but I believe it’s the right time for both myself and the club to be parting ways," he said. “There’s so many players and staff who I’ve loved working with and who have made it a pleasure to be at the club.
“I’m also grateful to those supporters who have got behind the team through the good but also tougher times. I’m confident that with the current management and group of players there will be exciting times ahead. All the best, Joe.”
Stoke boss O’Neill said: “Joe is an exemplary professional who has been a hugely supportive figure to me since I joined the club. We were locked in a relegation fight when I arrived but Joe was not only a key figure on the pitch but also a unifying figure in the dressing room.
“He has been a joy to work with and is someone who not only has the respect of myself and the staff at the club but also the respect of his peers. I fully respect and understand his decision
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