Swansea City are reportedly closing in on the signing of Valencia midfielder André Almeida, with fresh reports indicating that an agreement between the clubs has been reached.
Deal 'practically closed'
Spanish journalist Héctor Gómez reported late Tuesday that the Swans have "practically closed the deal" for the Portuguese midfielder, with sources in Wales confirming the information. According to Gómez, Swansea will pay an initial €3.5 million (£3.0m), plus bonuses and a percentage of any future sale. The clubs are now in agreement, and talks are set to focus on finalising personal terms with the player.
Sky Sports reporter Anthony Joseph has backed up the update, claiming Swansea are close to agreeing a deal worth £5.2m in total. Discussions are said to have centred around an initial £3m fee, with a further £2.2m payable in add-ons. Valencia would also retain a sell-on clause as part of the agreement.
Player's stance
The 26-year-old was left out of Valencia's training session on Tuesday as negotiations continued, with the player understood to be discussing personal terms ahead of a proposed move to south Wales. The latest developments represent a significant shift after uncertainty surrounded the deal earlier this week.
Reports in Spain had suggested Swansea and Valencia were making progress over a transfer fee, but doubts remained over whether Almeida himself was convinced by a move to the Championship. Spanish journalist Germán Muñoz claimed on Tuesday that the midfielder was considering the move, believing a successful spell at Swansea could increase his market value and potentially open the door to bigger opportunities in future.
Valencia's stance
Valencia are understood to be open to selling Almeida this summer as they look to ease financial pressures and create room within their squad. If completed, the Portugal international would become another eye-catching addition to Vitor Matos' squad as Swansea continue to strengthen ahead of the new Championship campaign.
While the clubs now appear close to a full agreement, the transfer is not yet officially complete, with personal terms still needing to be finalised before the move can be announced.
