One of Vitor Matos’ first transfer targets at Swansea City has now confirmed that he’s received contact from the Jacks ahead of a potential January move.
Vitor Matos instantly pinpoints "clear" Swansea problem
It wasn’t the start that Matos had been dreaming of on Tuesday evening, as Derby County battled to defeat a struggling Swansea, who now sit just two points clear of the Championship’s dropzone.
The former Liverpool coach would have been well aware that it’s not a quick fix in Wales, however, and has already pinpointed one “clear” issue that the Jacks had against Derby.
It’s clear that the young manager learned a thing or two from Jurgen Klopp during his time at Anfield, given his counter-pressing approach, but whether he can instill that approach into his side by this weekend remains to be seen.
Swansea square off against West Bromwich Albion knowing that defeat could leave them in the relegation zone by the end of the weekend.
It’s a squad in desperate need of reinforcements and Matos can’t afford any passengers in his pressing system – making the January window crucial.
It’s then that the new manager could welcome his first signing in Wales after Finland’s Leo Walta revealed contact from Swansea ahead of the winter window.
Leo Walta "ready" for big move after Swansea contact
Following initial reports that Kim Hellberg wanted to bring him to Wales before the manager chose Middlesbrough in controversial fashion, Swansea have kept their interest in Walta alive.
The Sirius midfielder could yet become Matos’ first signing after revealing that he’s already had contact from Swansea. Speaking to reporters, the 22-year-old said: “Yes. Yes, I have heard (from them). That they like me as a player and are interested.
“It’s quite early, we’re still in November. I’m going through different options, and we also have to talk to Sirius about the winter. I’m ready for a good league and to take a place straight away. I am a pretty good player, in my opinion, and I want to take a big step and see how far I can go.”
Instant blow for Matos as "one of Swansea City's key players" could now leave
An immediate concern for the managerial target.
ByTom Cunningham
Still just 22 years old, Walta is undoubtedly one to watch, especially amid Swansea’s interest. The midfielder scored 17 goals and provided three assists in Sweden last season and could quickly become an impressive signing in Wales.
Already a Finland international, Walta is certainly ready to take the next step in his club career. Whether that results in a first signing for Matos remains to be seen, however.
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