Former Stoke target Roman Lukaku has signed for West Bromwich Albion in a twelve-month loan deal from Chelsea.

The 19 year-old Belgium international has so far failed to make an impression for last season’s UEFA Champion’s League winners, having signed for the club just twelve months ago. Stoke boss Tony Pulis was disappointed not to have been able to sign the powerful former Anderlecht striker on loan last season, following his move to the London club. At that time, it was revealed by the club that only FIFA redtape, which stated a player could not move twice in the same transfer window, prevented Lukaku playing for Stoke last season.

Meanwhile, it’s been confirmed by Liverpool that Welsh international Joe Allen has signed a “long term deal” with the club, following in the wake of Brendan Rogers’ move from the Liberty Stadium to the helm at Anfield. Confirmation of the deal comes after Allen watched last night’s Europa League qualifier from the stands at Anfield last night, amidst rumours of Liverpool activating the £15million release fee in Allen’s Swansea City contract.

Further down the league, and former Stoke midfielder Liam Lawrence has reached an agreement with administrators at Fratton Park over the settlement of his contract. The right winger is now a free agent, following his release by Portsmouth – a move which means that Portsmouth can now be sold to the Portpin group. The club were in danger of following Glasgow Rangers into liquidation, had it not resolved the contract issues which also involved players Tal Ben Haim and Nigerian Nwankwo Kanu.