Swansea City’s Summer 2025 Transfer Window: Unpacking the Deals, Debunking the Whispers

The joy of a transfer window is such that there are always plenty of links to get people talking and speculating as to who the Swans could be signing – or even selling – during the course of a window that generally runs from June to the end of August.

As we have referenced the fun of a window is often in the speculation rather than the fact and this is what makes the discussion so compelling so we thought, with two weeks left until the season starts, that this was the perfect time to take a look back at the summer so far and what has happened – or not as the case maybe – through the window.

Let’s hand over to Jackbot: –

I. Introduction: The Summer Window Kicks Off for the Swans

The summer 2025 transfer window for UK football clubs, including those in the English Football League (EFL) like Swansea City, has unfolded in a structured, two-phase approach. Initially, the window opened early between June 1 and June 10, primarily to accommodate clubs participating in the FIFA Club World Cup, yet also providing an early opportunity for EFL teams to conduct business. Following this initial period, the window closed briefly before re-opening on June 16. It is now set to conclude at 7 pm BST on September 1, allowing for a total of 89 days of transfer activity.  This carefully delineated timeframe has allowed Swansea City to adopt a notably proactive stance in their recruitment efforts, marking a discernible shift from previous transfer periods.

Under the leadership of head coach Alan Sheehan and director of football Richard Montague, Swansea City has embarked on a more decisive and forward-thinking transfer strategy this summer. Sheehan has openly acknowledged the club’s imperative for “further additions” to the squad, a need particularly underscored by a recent pre-season defeat that exposed a “lack of depth”. Concurrently, Sheehan has confirmed the likelihood of “outgoings” before the window’s closure, indicating a necessary balancing act to facilitate the arrival of new players.

An examination of the club’s transfer activity reveals a compelling dynamic: a commitment to proactive early business set against the backdrop of inherent financial constraints. On one hand, multiple reports highlight Swansea’s foray into “uncharted territory” with their “early activity” and “decisive” actions in securing new signings well ahead of the new season. This approach is explicitly framed as a direct response to, and a learning experience from, “mistakes of past transfer windows”. The club appears to have prioritized identifying targets early and moving swiftly to secure them. However, a contrasting reality emerges from Alan Sheehan’s candid remarks, where he states the club “aren’t currently in a position to outmuscle some of their Championship rivals” and “can’t go out and sign anybody” for “more lucrative deals”. This indicates that while Swansea has become more efficient in identifying and securing targets, their overall spending power remains significantly constrained. This underlying tension points towards a highly targeted, value-focused recruitment model. The early signings are likely the product of meticulous scouting and pre-emptive actions on specific players who align with the club’s financial framework and playing philosophy. This also strongly suggests that any further significant incoming transfers will be heavily dependent on generating funds through player sales, illustrating a “sell-to-buy” dynamic that is a common operational necessity for clubs at this level.

II. Confirmed Arrivals: New Faces at the Liberty Stadium

Swansea City has demonstrated notable activity in the initial phase of the transfer window, successfully securing several key signings to reinforce their squad. This proactive approach has been widely welcomed by supporters, establishing a positive tone for the summer.

Zeidane Inoussa (Winger)

The 22-year-old Swedish winger became Swansea’s first confirmed summer acquisition, joining from BK Häcken for a reported fee of approximately €6 million. He committed to a five-year deal and officially became a Swansea player on July 1. Described as an “exciting” and “pacy forward” with the potential to “get fans off their seats,” Inoussa is expected to inject an aggressive, attacking dimension into Alan Sheehan’s tactical setup.10 A particularly interesting aspect of this transfer, as reported, involves the influence of Luka Modrić. The Real Madrid legend, who has been announced as an investor in Swansea City, reportedly engaged in discussions with Inoussa prior to his move, aiming to persuade him that SA1 was the optimal environment for his career progression. This represents a highly unconventional, non-traditional recruitment tool for a Championship club. While there is no indication of financial incentives, a personal appeal from a global football icon like Modrić could undoubtedly sway a player, especially a young talent seeking development and exposure. This approach leverages the club’s unique ownership profile in a manner that most competitors cannot replicate. It signifies that Swansea is actively utilizing all available resources, including high-profile connections, to gain a competitive advantage in the transfer market, particularly when direct financial power is limited. This is a clever and potentially effective strategy to attract players who might otherwise be beyond reach or prefer clubs with more immediate Premier League aspirations.

Bobby Wales (Striker)

The 19-year-old Scottish striker arrived from Kilmarnock on June 1, signing a four-year contract. A compensation package, estimated to be around £300,000, was agreed for his services.11 Wales brings considerable senior experience for his age, boasting 69 first-team appearances and 17 goals for Kilmarnock and Alloa. His impressive form during the 2024-25 season earned him a nomination for the Scottish Football Writers’ Association young player of the year award.

Ricardo Santos (Centre-Back)

An experienced 29-year-old defender, Santos joined Swansea on a free transfer from Bolton Wanderers, commencing a two-year contract on July 1. Santos contributes significant EFL experience, having made over 200 appearances and consistently earning a place in his division’s Team of the Year in four of the last five campaigns. His arrival is expected to provide crucial defensive depth, competition, and leadership.

Cameron Burgess (Centre-Back)

Another vital defensive reinforcement, Burgess, 29, also joined Swansea on a free transfer, arriving from Ipswich Town on a three-year contract effective July 1. Burgess played a pivotal role in Ipswich’s successive promotions, even featuring in 18 Premier League games last season. Swansea reportedly faced “considerable competition” for his signature, underscoring the importance of this acquisition.6

Ethan Galbraith (Central Midfielder)

The Northern Ireland international finalized his move from Leyton Orient on July 4 for an undisclosed fee, which notably constituted a club-record sale for Orient. Galbraith signed a three-year deal with an option for an additional 12 months. He is characterized as a “technically-gifted and versatile playmaker” and a “highly-rated Manchester United academy product,” with the primary objective of enhancing Sheehan’s midfield options.

Melker Widell (Midfielder)

While his transfer was completed in January, Melker Widell, a Sweden Under-21 international, is set to integrate with the squad for the first time this summer. His integration is part of the club’s broader early recruitment drive, demonstrating foresight in their planning.

Blair McKenzie (Centre-Back)

The young defender joined Swansea City Academy from Aberdeen on a free transfer on May 29, 2025. This acquisition signifies the club’s ongoing investment in its youth setup and future talent pipeline.

A close examination of the confirmed arrivals reveals a deliberate strategic pattern in Swansea’s recruitment. Players such as Ricardo Santos and Cameron Burgess, both 29 years old, bring substantial, proven Championship and even Premier League experience. Their acquisition directly addresses the explicit need for “proven performers at this level” and “leadership” within the squad.⁶ Conversely, Zeidane Inoussa (22), Bobby Wales (19), and Ethan Galbraith (24) represent younger talents, consistently described as “exciting,” “talented,” and possessing “potential to develop”. This distinct blend of age and experience in the incoming players suggests a deliberate strategy to construct a well-rounded squad. This balanced approach aims to provide immediate stability and quality on the pitch through experienced individuals, while simultaneously investing in future growth and potential resale value through promising young players. This dual focus is crucial for a club operating within financial realities, seeking both sporting progress and sustainable financial health.

Table 1: Swansea City Confirmed Arrivals (Summer 2025)

III. Confirmed Departures: Bidding Farewell to the Jack Army

The summer transfer window has also witnessed a significant number of departures from Swansea City, including several long-serving players and academy talents. Many of these exits are a result of expiring contracts, reflecting the natural cycle of squad evolution and the club’s retained list decisions.

Joe Allen (Central Midfielder)

A club legend and fan favourite, Joe Allen officially retired from professional football at the conclusion of the 2024-25 season. His final game took place on May 2, 2025, and his contract officially expired on July 1, 2025.20 His departure marks the end of a significant era for the Swans.

Kyle Naughton (Defender)

Another long-serving player who accumulated over 300 appearances for the club, Kyle Naughton’s contract expired at the end of June 2025, leading to his departure on July 1, 2025. He had previously signed a one-year extension in May 2024 to see him through to this summer.24

Cyrus Christie (Defender)

Cyrus Christie’s contract also expired, and he became a free agent on July 1, 2025, having left the club in May 2025 after making 12 appearances in the latter half of the 2024/25 season.20

Kristian Pedersen (Defender)

Kristian Pedersen’s contract expired, and he became a free agent on July 1, 2025. He had spent the 2023/24 season on loan at Sheffield Wednesday before returning to Swansea.

Jon McLaughlin (Goalkeeper)

Jon McLaughlin departed as a free agent on July 1, 2025, following the expiration of his contract.

Mykola Kuharevich (Striker)

After two years with the Swans, Mykola Kuharevich joined Slovan Bratislava for an undisclosed fee on June 17, 2025. The Ukrainian striker had made only 13 appearances for Swansea and spent the previous season on loan at Hibernian. His move signifies a permanent parting of ways.

Nathan Tjoe-A-On (Left-Back)

The Indonesia international left Swansea City by mutual consent on June 18, 2025, despite having a year remaining on his contract.31 His departure concluded a largely disappointing spell in South Wales, where he played just two minutes of league football. He subsequently joined Dutch side Willem II on a two-year deal with an option for a third, confirmed around July 22, 2025.

Nathan Broome (Goalkeeper)

Nathan Broome joined Bolton Wanderers on a three-year contract on July 22, 2025, after his contract with Swansea City ended by mutual consent. He had spent time on trial with Bolton and featured in their pre-season games but never made a competitive first-team appearance for Swansea.

Harry Darling (Centre-Back)

Harry Darling signed for Norwich City as a free agent on June 16, 2025, with the deal becoming official on July 1. He penned a three-year deal with an option for an additional year, having left Swansea after his contract expired. Norwich notably secured his signature despite interest from several other Championship clubs.

Ben Hughes (Goalkeeper)

Ben Hughes departed Swansea City and joined Cambridge United as a free agent on July 1, 2025, with the move announced on June 20, 2025. He was part of the academy departures.

Loan Returns

Lewis O’Brien, Hannes Delcroix, and Myles Peart-Harris all returned to their respective parent clubs following the conclusion of their loan spells with Swansea.

Academy/Youth Departures

A number of academy players also left the club, including Maliq Cadogan (contract terminated by mutual consent), Richard Faakye, Sammy Henia-Kamau, Aidan Higgins, Kiel Higginson, Sam Seager, and Osian Williams. These departures are part of the club’s ongoing youth development and retention strategy, freeing up space and resources.

Table 2: Swansea City Confirmed Departures (Summer 2025)

IV. The Rumour Mill: Live Speculation and Ongoing Sagas

Beyond the confirmed deals, the transfer window is perpetually a hive of speculation. For Swansea City, several players are currently at the epicentre of ongoing rumours, their futures yet to be determined. These situations frequently hinge on the nature of incoming offers, individual player preferences, and the club’s overarching financial strategy.

Jerry Yates (Striker)

Jerry Yates’ future at Swansea City remains highly uncertain. His exclusion from the pre-season trip to Spain was a significant indication of his potential departure. While Blackpool, his former club, is reportedly keen on re-signing him, Yates is understood to prefer remaining in the Championship. As of late July, no formal offers have been tabled, but Swansea is reportedly seeking a permanent deal rather than another loan. Head coach Alan Sheehan has not dismissed the possibility of Yates staying, noting that he continues to train with the first team and is expected to feature in upcoming friendlies. This suggests the rumour is very much active, with an exit still probable should a suitable permanent offer materialize. Sheehan’s frank admission that Swansea “can’t go out and sign anybody” for lucrative deals 3 and the club’s explicit preference for a “permanent deal rather than another loan” for Yates strongly suggest that the sale of players like Yates is viewed as a vital mechanism to generate transfer funds. If Yates is not central to Sheehan’s plans, securing a transfer fee for him becomes crucial for reinvestment. This is a clear scenario where player sales directly enable further squad strengthening. The resolution of Yates’ situation, and whether Swansea can secure a fee for him, will directly influence their capacity to bring in further reinforcements, particularly a much-needed “proper goalscorer” mentioned in reports. His departure could well serve as a catalyst for other incoming deals.

Josh Ginnelly (Winger)

Similar to Yates, Josh Ginnelly’s future appears precarious, highlighted by his absence from the pre-season trip to Spain. He has been the subject of enquiries, but no formal offers have yet been made. Sheehan’s comments regarding Ginnelly mirror those on Yates, indicating that Ginnelly is still training with the squad and could play in friendlies, thereby keeping the door open for him to remain at the club. This remains an active rumour, with a potential exit contingent on concrete offers.

Jay Fulton (Central Midfielder)

Speculation has linked Jay Fulton with a move away from Swansea, with Plymouth Argyle reportedly showing interest. With only one year remaining on his current deal, Swansea might consider selling him to generate funds. However, as of July 18, no serious approaches have been made, and Fulton travelled with the squad for pre-season, suggesting he is currently considered part of the first-team plans. This rumour is active but appears to be in a holding pattern, likely dependent on incoming bids.

Florian Bianchini (Winger)

Despite arriving only last season for approximately £2 million, Florian Bianchini struggled for minutes under Sheehan towards the end of the campaign. While his long contract until 2028 might suggest he will be given another opportunity, a “tidy offer would be welcomed,” and a loan spell is also a possibility. He did participate in pre-season travel, indicating he is currently still in the first-team picture. This is an active rumour with multiple potential outcomes, reflecting a player who might be moved on if the right opportunity arises.

Andy Fisher (Goalkeeper)

Andy Fisher, who spent last season on loan at St Johnstone, has reportedly attracted interest from Portsmouth this summer. However, his potential departure would leave Swansea severely short of goalkeeping options, particularly with Nathan Broome’s confirmed move to Bolton. Interestingly, Portsmouth’s interest in Fisher even influenced their decision to loan Toby Steward to St Johnstone 45, indicating genuine interest. Fisher also travelled for pre-season, maintaining his status as an active rumour with a potential outgoing.

Gonçalo Franco (Central Midfielder)

Gonçalo Franco’s “sparkling first season” in the Championship has garnered “interest from the continent”. While a “big bid for him certainly wouldn’t be welcomed,” it “might have to be at least considered”. Several clubs are reportedly “keeping tabs” on him, though no formal offers have been made yet.19 This is a significant active rumour, as a sale could bring in substantial funds for the club. Franco’s strong performance in his inaugural season has naturally made him a target for other clubs, particularly from the continent. The club’s internal consideration of a “big bid” reveals the inherent tension between retaining a valuable player for on-field success and the financial reality of needing to generate revenue. This is a classic dilemma for clubs operating outside the top tier. This situation highlights a common challenge for Championship clubs: developing talent to a high level often means they become targets for wealthier clubs, forcing difficult decisions that balance sporting ambition with financial sustainability. Swansea’s ability to resist or capitalize on such bids will be a key factor in their squad development.

Ronald (Forward)

The Brazilian forward, Ronald, could be on the move this summer, despite joining Swansea in January 2024 for a seven-figure fee and having a contract until 2027. Brazilian news outlet UOL Esporte reports that Corinthians are interested in a loan, with the player reportedly keen on returning home. Teams from Saudi Arabia are also monitoring the situation for a permanent transfer. Swansea has stated their intention to retain him and would not currently negotiate a loan deal, but they are aware that a bidding war could yield a “huge profit”. This is a highly active rumour with significant financial implications for the club. Ronald’s reported openness to leaving despite his long-term contract indicates a player-driven aspect to this rumour, where personal preferences (such as a return to Brazil) can influence transfer dynamics. Swansea’s stance of not wanting a loan but being open to a profitable sale if interest persists demonstrates a pragmatic approach to maximizing asset value. The club is weighing the sporting loss of a “standout performer” against the potential financial gain for reinvestment. This scenario underscores the complex nature of modern football transfers, where player desires, emerging market dynamics (like Saudi interest), and club financial health intertwine. Swansea’s decision on Ronald will be a critical test of their ability to balance short-term squad strength with long-term financial health and reinvestment into multiple areas of the squad.

V. Dismissed Rumours: Setting the Record Straight

The transfer window is also a fertile ground for misinformation and speculative links that ultimately do not materialize. Here, prominent rumours concerning Swansea City that have been definitively debunked or have seen the linked player move elsewhere are clarified.

Lewis O’Brien (Central Midfielder)

While Swansea City had been linked with the Nottingham Forest midfielder, reports indicated they were “set to miss out” due to Wrexham offering a “more lucrative financial package” than anything Swansea could provide. This rumour was definitively dismissed when Wrexham officially completed the signing of O’Brien from Nottingham Forest for an undisclosed fee on July 24, 2025.

Oli McBurnie (Striker)

A potential emotional return for the former Swansea hero was “weighed up” by the club, but the move “never really got off the ground” due to his “wage demands” proving problematic. Alan Sheehan explicitly confirmed that Swansea “aren’t currently in a position to outmuscle some of their Championship rivals” financially, rendering such a deal difficult. This rumour has been dismissed due to financial infeasibility.

Josh Tymon (Left-Back)

Intense social media speculation claimed Josh Tymon had suffered a broken ankle and was facing a prolonged spell on the sidelines. However, WalesOnline swiftly dismissed these severe claims, clarifying that while Tymon did pick up a knock, “the severity was nowhere near what had been suggested”. This highlights the importance of relying on credible sources over social media chatter.

Ben Davies (Left-Back/Centre-Back)

Rumours of a potential return to Swansea City for the Tottenham defender, and links to Championship newcomers Wrexham, have been dismissed. Tottenham exercised an option to extend Davies’ contract by a further year, meaning he is now contracted at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium until the summer of 2026. This decision was announced on June 9, 2025.

Carlton Morris (Striker)

Despite being cited elsewhere as a possible target for Swansea, “club sources have indicated those suggestions are wide of the mark for now”. Additionally, Derby County’s capture of Morris may further confirm their lack of intention to pursue Yates, indirectly suggesting no move for Morris to Swansea. This rumour has been dismissed by club sources.

Ethan Erhahon (Central Midfielder)

Swansea City reportedly had a £600,000 bid for the Lincoln City midfielder rejected earlier in the summer. The rumour was definitively dismissed when Bolton Wanderers completed the permanent signing of Erhahon on a four-year contract for an undisclosed fee on July 25, 2025.

David Sousa (Centre-Back)

Swansea City reportedly had an £858,000 bid for Molenbeek’s Brazilian centre-back rejected. The deal was “not expected to progress any further” , and Swansea’s success in signing Cameron Burgess meant they “won’t be reviving any move” for Sousa, as he was behind Burgess in their transfer priorities. This rumour has been dismissed, as an alternative target was secured.

Table 3: Swansea City Transfer Rumours (Summer 2025)

VI. Conclusion: Shaping the Squad for the Season Ahead

Swansea City’s summer 2025 transfer window has, to date, been characterized by a more decisive and early approach to recruitment, a notable contrast to previous windows. The club has successfully brought in a blend of promising young talents, including Zeidane Inoussa, Bobby Wales, and Ethan Galbraith, alongside experienced Championship campaigners such as Ricardo Santos and Cameron Burgess. This reflects a conscious effort to balance immediate squad needs with long-term development and financial sustainability.

While the incoming players address key areas, particularly in central defence and midfield, the volume of outgoings, especially those who departed as free agents or through mutual consent, underscores an ongoing squad overhaul. The futures of several existing players, notably Jerry Yates, Josh Ginnelly, Jay Fulton, Florian Bianchini, Andy Fisher, Gonçalo Franco, and Ronald, remain uncertain. Their potential departures, particularly if they generate transfer fees, could significantly influence the club’s capacity to make further additions, especially in the attacking department where the need for a “proper goalscorer” is still acknowledged.

Alan Sheehan and Richard Montague appear to be operating within clear financial parameters, prioritizing value and strategic fits over high-cost acquisitions. Their willingness to allow players not central to their plans to depart, even if it means some loss of immediate depth, suggests a disciplined approach to managing the wage bill and generating funds for reinvestment. The reported influence of Luka Modrić on recruitment, while an unusual factor for a Championship club, points to innovative ways the club is attempting to compete in a challenging market by leveraging unique connections.

The early business conducted by Swansea City has provided a solid foundation for the upcoming campaign, but the remaining weeks of the transfer window will be crucial. The club still needs to address the potential voids created by departing players, particularly in the attacking third if Yates and Ginnelly move on, and potentially manage continued interest in key assets like Gonçalo Franco and Ronald. The prevailing financial constraints mean that any further significant incoming transfers are likely contingent on successful player sales. The ultimate success of this transfer window will be judged by Swansea City’s performance in the upcoming 2025/26 Championship season, as the new faces integrate and the squad finds its rhythm. The proactive start offers a degree of optimism, but the true test lies in how the final pieces of the puzzle fall into place before the window closes.