Swans Given Permission To Approach Akinfenwa

Swansea have been allowed to talk to Torquay striker Adebayo Akinfenwa, who is out-of-contract at Plainmoor, following his refusal to sign a new contract. Torquay Chairman Mike Bateson confirmed that Kenny Jackett will hold talks with the pacy striker, although Bristol City have also been allowed to enter negotiations. However, Torquay could be entitled to some form of compensation, as Akinfenwa is aged just 23, meaning that Swansea may have to create some sort of agreeable financial package to get their man.

Akinfenwa joined Torquay last summer from fellow promoted outfit Doncaster Rovers and went on to net 14 goals in 35 appearances in League One last year. Torquay were desperate to hold onto "Bayo", yet the striker opted to turn down two improved contract offers, leaving the club with no choice but to allow other clubs to talk to him.

"We are told that Bayo is being hawked around the clubs by a second agent", Bateson told Torquay's official website, "...and it is in our interests that those wishing to hold talks with him be allowed to do so. It gives us a chance to gauge his market value and competition for his services should prove healthy for our finances".