Swansea begin search for new manager

Swansea have already started discussions over their hunt for a new manager following the departure of Brendan Rodgers to Liverpool.

Chairman Huw Jenkins confirmed in a statement on Wednesday night that the Northern Irishman had asked to leave so he could take over at Anfield; the two clubs are set to agree a compensation deal today.

Jenkins vowed that the Swans would move swiftly to find a successor to the man who guided them to the Premier League.

And Press Association Sport understands preliminary talks have taken place between the chairman and other high-ranking Swans officials, although a full meeting of the club's board has not yet been held.

It is understood that the club had started to make preparations for life without Rodgers as early as February, holding a series of meetings when the 39-year-old was linked with Tottenham in order to avoid being left high and dry in the event of his departure.

Brighton boss Gus Poyet, Blackpool's Ian Holloway, Birmingham's Chris Hughton and former Denamrk international Michael Laudrup have all been linked with the vacancy at the Liberty Stadium.

Poyet is the favourite with the bookmakers having been approached by Swansea in 2010, prior to their appointment of Rodgers.

When asked last weekend if he would want a move to a bigger club the former Chelsea and Tottenham midfielder said: "That's my aim. I'm very honest in that.

"I'm not the type of manager that keeps saying, 'No, I'm not going to go'.

"I say, 'If something is coming, and it's an opportunity, then we've got a problem'.

"But, at the moment, there's nothing, so let's not think and spend any energy thinking about something that's not even close."

Rodgers' exit had also raised question marks over whether the club record £6.8million signing of Gylfi Sigurdsson would go ahead.

The Iceland international made a huge impression on loan at the Liberty from Hoffenheim during the second half of last season, and Swansea announced earlier this week that they had agreed a fee and terms with the player.

And it is understood that the club still expect the 22-year-old to have a medical and complete his permanent move to the Liberty Stadium in the coming days, despite the uncertainty over the managerial situation.

PA