Everton facing competition for Joe Allen

Everton are facing competition for the signing of Stoke midfielder Joe Allen, according to Graeme Bailey of the Gambling Times.

The report claims that Celtic are ahead of a number of Premier League clubs in their pursuit of Allen, as they aim to secure a deal for the Welshman.

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers has a good relationship with Allen, who he worked with at Swansea and Liverpool earlier in his career.

Bailey claims that Allen is keen to link up with Rodgers again and would be open to the idea of a move to Scotland.

West Ham, Newcastle, Leicester, Wolves and Everton are the five Premier League clubs thought to also be eyeing up a move for Allen.

Stoke look set to cash in on the Welsh international after they were relegated to the Championship last season.

Gary Rowett will want funds to launch a promotion campaign, and Allen is one of Stoke’s most valuable players.