I’m still focused on the Swans, says Piroe

JOEL Piroe says he hasn’t been distracted by transfer speculation surrounding his future.

The striker has enjoyed a tremendous debut season with Swansea City, hammering home 24 goals in all competitions. He has surpassed the achievements of Oli Mcburnie, the last forward to hit 20 goals in SA1, who went on to secure a £20m move to Sheffield United as a result.

As such, Swansea have formed their own valuation of Piroe, with his form attracting interest from Premier League outfit Leicester City, who are said to be monitoring his situation just one year into his stay in Landore.

Swansea’s finances dictate that player sales are not just necessary but vital to the club’s long-term viability, meaning one of their main assets will have to be sold this summer. It appears increasingly likely it will be Piroe, with the Dutchman their most attractive prospect right now, with an honourable mention for midfielder Flynn Downes, who has also impressed.

Russell Martin would love to keep the former PSV frontman but the head coach is a realist.

During the final match of the season against QPR, he took Piroe off early in the second half, believing his head had been turned by the transfer talk.

“He’s a young man, there’s a lot of speculation and noise and I don’t think he could perform at his best today because of it,” said Martin. “That was it really. He deserved an ovation from the supporters for what he’s given us this season.

“We have a valuation of him, and every player. If someone meets it, then so be it, we’ll have to be ready. We’ll be absolutely disappointed to lose such a good player, but I think he appreciates that this club’s been really good for him this season, he’s been really good for us and it’s just been a good fit. I think he’s grateful that we’ve played a certain way that highlights and complements his strengths.

“I think it puts us in a really strong position to not have to do anything, unless, again, something comes in that’s lifechanging for the club and the player involved,” added Martin when asked if more players would have to be sold if Piroe’s valuation is met.

“The valuation, it does definitely strengthen us and would change the landscape. We haven’t had one call yet. I know the season is not finished for most people. Joel, hopefully like the majority of players, loves being here.”

A recruitment source has told Walesonline that there is “no movement at this time”.