Hoffenheim have given midfielder Gylfi Sigurdsson a deadline of June 30 to secure a move to the Barclays Premier League.
The Iceland international had been set to complete a return to Swansea, where he spent the second half of last season on loan, for a club-record £6.8million fee.
However, the departure of manager Brendan Rodgers to Liverpool halted the deal before the 22-year-old could have his medical and Anfield now seems to be his preferred destination.
Last week Rodgers admitted he would be interested in signing the midfielder but stressed the player had to first speak to Swansea - who appointed Michael Laudrup as their new boss on Friday.
Sigurdsson's German club, who began pre-season training today, have granted extended leave in order for him to complete a move to England.
"Gylfi Sigurdsson will not be with TSG 1899 Hoffenheim for the start of pre-season," said a statement on the club's website.
"He has, after consultation, obtained a prolonged holiday until 30 June.
"The club wants the 22-year-old to continue to secure a future in the Premier League."
