We all know that star performers from major tournaments are on the radar of big clubs, but this seems a bit out there.
Sure, Joe Allen was among the best players at Euro 2016, but Premier League clubs and managers have seen enough of him in the Premier League to know his limits.
That certainly ought to be the case for Jose Mourinho, whose Chelsea team outsmarted a Liverpool midfield containing Allen to deny the Reds the title in 2014.
So forgive us if we’re a little sceptical about rumours of Mourinho’s United plotting a move for the Welsh Xavi/Pirlo/Pogba (delete as appropriate).
That speculation has surfaced this morning, but we’re not the only ones unconvinced by suggestions that the midfielder could become the first man to trade Anfield for Old Trafford in more than half a century.
James Rodriguez to west ham, Joe Allen to man Utd, seriously the media aren't even trying with the rumours anymore.
— Michael Rowley (@Leachimblue) July 18, 2016
https://twitter.com/TheAdongo/status/754944244297654273
Joe Allen to Man Utd lol. The dart must have fallen off the board when they were coming up with that one.
— James Rogers (@jamesrogersie) July 18, 2016
Transfer rumours are absolute embarrassing at times, i see one where man utd linked with Joe Allen lool
— 🇵🇸Qibby Tell em🇵🇸 (@Aaqibbby) July 17, 2016
But how are Liverpool fans feeling out the prospect of Allen jumping ship to United?
Considering he has already been linked with Swansea, Celtic and Sevilla, plenty were already resigned to him leaving.
We all know he's leaving, best to get a good price but he did have a great tournament did wee Joe. #Allen #lfc pic.twitter.com/NO0WXq5QTQ
— LFCZA 🇿🇦 (@LFCZA) July 11, 2016
But leaving for United? That’s a different matter altogether.
Imagine the FUME us #LFC fans will have if Joe Allen joined United hahaha, of course the transfer link is bullshit, but just think. Carnage.
— Jack Griffiths (@JGriffiths993) July 18, 2016
If anyone can get the best out of a composed, defensive-minded midfielder who rarely threatens the opposition goal, it’s Jose Mourinho. But come on, guys. We’ll believe this one when we see it.