Liverpool Transfer Rumours: Joe Allen Move Would Signal Change of Times for Reds

New Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has already begun to change the atmosphere at Anfield as he looks to build a team that suits his style. One player already on his target list is Swansea City midfielder Joe Allen, which would signal a switch in the team's approach.

Ian Ladyman of the Daily Mail reports the 22-year-old star might end up following his former boss to the Reds, even though a deal couldn't be completed until next summer because of an agreement between the two sides.

It's going to take some time before Rodgers can build the team his way, so having to wait a season to acquire Allen really doesn't change anything. The process of getting the Reds back into title contention on a yearly basis isn't going to happen overnight.

Allen scored four goals and chipped in a couple assists for the Swans this season. He's a crafty playmaker with strong technical skills, which fits perfectly into Rodgers' system of quick passing that allowed Swansea to exceed most expectations after being promoted.

What the 23-year-old Welshman lacks in size, he more than makes up for in skill. He has deceptive pace and terrific vision, a combination that should eventually allow him to become one of the Premier League's best distributors.

That's what Rodgers needs in the central midfield to make Liverpool's offense more effective. The Reds finished 11th in the league in goals scored during the campaign and were prone to scoring droughts because it often seemed like players weren't on the same page.

If Rodgers is given the funds to make some moves over the next few transfer windows, that will change. Swansea didn't have nearly as much talent as most other EPL teams, but the Swans were able to hang tough due to their cohesive play.

Keeping tabs on Allen is a clear signal that the new boss will be looking to do the same at Anfield, only at a higher level with more skilled players.

Patience will be the most important word for Reds fans for a few seasons. The process of transforming a roster takes time. But it's obvious Rodgers already has a plan in place, and Allen could become a big part of it starting next summer.

All told, things are starting to look up for Liverpool after a disappointing season that led to the change at manager. If first impressions are any indication, supporters are in line for quite the ride in the coming years.