Pittsburgh (KDKA)- Fans and media assumed that forward Mike Rupp would be an easy signing for the Penguins.

It’s looking more and more like that won’t be the case.

The Pens and Rupp have not been able to agree on contract terms and it looks as though Rupp will hit the open market.

Insidepittsburghsports.com is reporting that Shero may be looking to replace Rupp with free agent forward Arron Asham.

Yesterday, we reported that the Philadelphia Flyers are very interested in talking with Asham.

Asham was one of the Pens best forwards in the playoffs and could be a great fit on the 3rd or 4th line.

Asham made $700,000 last season.

Talks have gone so bad that RDS.CA is reporting that Shero is open to trading Rupp’s negotiating rights.