Buster Olney of ESPN The Magazine reports that there have been discussions regarding the swap of slugger Ryan Howard of the Philadelphia Phillies for St. Louis’ Albert Pujols.

Phillies GM Ruben Amaro denied the rumors saying, “Lies. That’s a lie. I don’t know who you’re talking to, but that’s a lie.” It sounds like a guy caught off guard and trapped in a corner.

Pujols, 30, is eligible for free agency after the 2011 season and talks about long-term extension have gone nowhere.

Olney suggests that if the Cardinals cannot re-sign Pujols, they could trade him for Howard who also will be a free agent after 2011, but Howard will be more affordable to re-sign when is contract is due. Howard coincidentally was born in St. Louis and is considered a hometown kid.

Pujols would fit well in Philadelphia since his right-handed bat would complement the left-handed Phillies’ lineup and he’s a good defensive first baseman.

For any team that decides to sign Pujols, it will cost them. It’s estimated that Pujols will be the $20+ million range since Mark Teixeira ($22.5 million) and Alex Rodriguez ($27.5 million) are the two closest players that one can compare with Pujols. Now that Matt Holliday is signed for seven guaranteed season for $17 million each year, and with Pujol’s expected $20+ million, the Cardinals may be hesitant to spend over $40 million for two players per year.