**Swansea City Assess Championship Free Agents as Summer Recruitment Continues**
As the summer transfer window accelerates, Swansea City find themselves at a crucial crossroads in terms of squad building. While the club have already taken decisive steps by welcoming Bobby Wales and Zeidane Inoussa to south Wales, as well as integrating January acquisition Melker Widell, there remains a sense that several important transfers are still in the pipeline. With Alan Sheehan preparing for his debut campaign at the helm, the Swans are actively exploring innovative ways to strengthen their roster for the 2025/26 season.
Director of Football Richard Montague has publicly acknowledged the financial constraints facing the club, suggesting Swansea may need to employ some creativity in the market. In reality, that could well mean a closer look at the current pool of free agents — players released by their former teams who now represent an attractive, cost-effective opportunity.
This scenario is not unique to Swansea. Across the Championship, and even in some promoted clubs from League One, the release of annual retained lists has seen a wave of experienced players suddenly become available. For Swansea City, this extensive menu of potential signings provides a chance to add either depth or star quality without incurring transfer fees.
One notable name on this summer’s free agent list is former Swansea midfielder Jonjo Shelvey, who was released by Burnley. Shelvey, with his proven track record and previous connection to the club, might be viewed as a candidate to inject experience and guile into Swansea’s midfield – a role that could prove especially vital given the youthful makeup of the current squad.
Elsewhere, Championship rivals have parted ways with significant first-team options. Blackburn Rovers, for instance, have released Adam Forshaw, while Bristol City said goodbye to Kal Naismith. Both of these players have substantial Championship experience and could provide leadership and versatility. Burnley have also given Nathan Redmond his marching orders, and his attacking flair might pique the Swans’ interest, depending on their tactical plans.
Looking further down the Championship, clubs such as Derby County, Hull City, and Millwall have each published lengthy lists of departing players. Derby alone have released the likes of Tom Barkhuizen, Jeff Hendrick, and Kemar Roofe – all established professionals with proven records in English football. Meanwhile, names like Shaun Hutchinson (Millwall) and Ben Hamer (Sheffield Wednesday) indicate experience is readily available for teams willing to act quickly.
The situation is further complicated by several clubs still in negotiation with some of their out-of-contract players. While not all those currently listed as released will remain available, this stage in the transfer market is often one of opportunity, as unexpectedly out-of-favour talents seek new beginnings.
From Swansea’s perspective, it will be about finding the right blend of experience and ambition. The club’s approach under Sheehan appears geared not just towards immediate impact, but sustainable growth, meaning careful targeting of these free agents is likely to be the order of the day. Enthusiasts and pundits alike will be watching closely to see which names ultimately make the move to south Wales.
Supporters can expect continued transfer intrigue throughout the pre-season, as the Swans look to bolster their ranks ahead of what promises to be a demanding campaign. For now, however, the focus remains fixed on the list of potential acquisitions freely available from rival clubs.
With such a vast array of talent now on the market, Swansea City’s recruitment team have plenty to consider. Whether searching for seasoned campaigners or dynamic younger players, the coming weeks may well prove decisive in shaping the club’s fortunes for the new season and beyond.