Liverpool Transfer News: Shock Victor Valdes Revelation, Dele Alli Deal Expected

Victor Valdes' agent has rejected claims the Spanish goalkeeper refused to go on trial with Liverpool, saying the story "is false."

Gines Carvajal, the former Barcelona stopper's representative, rejected a story originally published by Neil Moxley of the Sunday People, in which his client is said to have turned down a four-day opportunity to prove himself on Merseyside.

"Liverpool didn't ask us to train for four days," said Carvajal, reported by Sport and via ESPN FC. "We haven't rejected it because it [the story] is false. Neither Brendan Rodgers nor Liverpool have ever made us this proposal, at any time."

Fabrizio Romano of Sky Italia suggests money has been discussed, however:

Valdes certainly needs to prove his fitness after undergoing knee surgery at the end of March. The Spaniard hasn't played since but remains a tempting free-agent option for elite clubs. A proven winner—he captured 21 trophies during his 12-year tenure at the Camp Nou—Valdes would bring a wealth of experience to any club who takes a chance on his services.

The 32-year-old was linked with a mega-money move to Monaco during the summer, but new boss Leonardo Jardim is said to have cancelled the pre-contract agreement due to concerns over Valdes' fitness. This has left the veteran No.1 with the task of rebuilding his physical condition in the hope another top side will plump for his signature.

Liverpool could certainly use the Spanish international, who would provide fearsome competition for Simon Mignolet. The Belgian continues to appear shaky between the Anfield sticks and was told to be more "aggressive" by Rodgers, per David Maddock of the Mirror.

Mignolet is a capable shot-stopper and possesses sharp reflexes, but he appears feeble as the last line of defence behind the likes of Martin Skrtel and Dejan Lovren. Liverpool lack a commanding presence in goal and need someone who can lead from the back.

Ten goals conceded in seven Premier League games must be improved upon if the club wish to make the Champions League this season, per WhoScored.com.

Rodgers is also said to be hunting 18-year-old midfielder Dele Alli from Milton Keynes Dons. Paul Hetherington of the Daily Star reports the Reds are "expected to complete the deal in the January transfer window," beating the likes of Manchester United and Bayern Munich to the talented youngster.

A hefty fee of between £8-9 million is reported. This is somewhat pricey considering Alli has limited exposure in League One, but his performance against United in the 4-0 Capital One Cup win highlights that he has the potential to be a big-game player at the highest level.

It's fair to say Rodgers is a purveyor of youth. Alli's arrival would make total sense when considering the manager's ability to get the most out of talented starlets, while grounding them with a disciplined approach.

Although Alli would likely return on loan to MK Dons for the remainder of the season, per Hetherington, it may be smart for Liverpool to tie his long-term future up in January before another club does the same.

Tim Ireland/Associated Press

Rodgers is unlikely to dip into the winter market too heavily—after signing so many new players in the summer—but he would be smart to continue padding the squad out.

Valdes' quality is proven across a career of success and he could finally give Mignolet a reason to improve. Alli, while young, represents a future star and may be a smart investment for the coming years.