Swansea City are bracing for a potentially hectic summer, though not as intense as in previous years. The club has already secured a deal for centre-back Stephen Welsh, who will join on July 1 after his release from Scottish giants Celtic, and more moves are expected in the coming weeks.
Manager Vitor Matos has emphasized that there won't be as many sweeping changes to his squad as in previous summers, and he has acknowledged that a full pre-season could be crucial in further conveying his philosophy to his players. However, new faces will undoubtedly be part of the club's upcoming pre-season training camp in Austria, not only due to incomings but also because several youngsters are firmly knocking on the door for a breakthrough or increased involvement in the first team next season.
Filip Lissah
There is already a growing clamour for him to be given a chance in the Swans backline next season, following a superb loan spell at Scottish side Falkirk. The 21-year-old can play anywhere across the back four and was arguably one of the best defenders in the league last season. His performances have sparked whispers that Celtic may come calling, but Matos has confirmed he plans to evaluate him closely in pre-season.
"Next season he will be with us 100% so let's see how it goes in pre-season," the Swans boss said. "We are really happy that he will be with us in that time."
Cameron Congreve
The winger's development has stuttered a little since his first-team breakthrough under Russell Martin. However, after a season on loan at Dundee, there is a feeling he could be ready to challenge for a senior spot again. The 22-year-old had a strong summer, making his Wales debut in the last international break and impressing boss Craig Bellamy.
"I watched him a bit at Dundee, and I liked him," Bellamy said. "There were bits you want to see a little bit more of. As much as you can watch from afar, when you really get to see him closely he’s really been impressive. He’s the type of winger I really like. He’s aggressive. He wants to commit full-backs. Top left foot. I’ve been really impressed by him and he’s definitely deserved this call-up. Good kid, handles himself well, speaks well. He’s got all the makings that I’d say a Welsh player should have."
Kyrell Wilson
His stint at Falkirk has been somewhat overshadowed by Lissah's exploits, but the 21-year-old winger also had a constructive loan spell. His stunning strike against Celtic was a highlight, as he racked up three goals and one assist in 32 appearances.
"It has been amazing for me," Wilson said. "It has been my first full season in men's football and the gaffer has given me so many opportunities on some of the biggest stages. I have learned a lot and I am still learning. I am really grateful for this loan period."
Sam Parker
A player most fans already know well. The right-back saw a promising run to the end of last season cut short by injury but will be fit for pre-season. The 19-year-old has a bright future and is expected to surpass his tally of four league appearances last term.
"I am really happy with Sam," said Matos. "Clearly he is someone who everyone relies on now, which is really good for a 19-year-old who made his debut and then had a massive injury and took a proper knock. We are all really happy for him - everyone likes him a lot. I think he is taking steps and steps, really good steps. Hopefully he will have a brilliant career with us."
Ben Lloyd
The attacking midfielder was a key player for Newport County in their battle for League Two survival last season, contributing eight goals from 42 appearances. He has been keeping an eye on matters back in Swansea.
"I keep in contact with Swansea a lot, and I still watch all their games when I can," he said in February. "They’re doing really well and playing a good brand of football, and they’re happy with how things are going."
Thomas Woodward
From running shooting drills with Snoop Dogg to making his first-team debut at his boyhood club, it was a memorable season for the 19-year-old forward. Woodward signed a deal through to 2029 before the season ended and has already earned praise from Matos.
After Woodward's debut in the 3-1 win over Charlton Athletic, where he provided an assist, Matos said: "He came on and he had an impact straight away - running on the line, crossing, trying to be involved in the box. I like Woody a lot. He has a lot of potential, a lot of talent and he's a really wonderful kid. So it was really nice to see."
