Jonathan de Guzman has responded to Swansea City’s admission they want him to stay at the club, by admitting he is open to such a possibility.
The Holland international initially arrived at the Liberty Stadium at the start of last season, and he impressed as he helped the Swans to a ninth place finish in their debut Premier League campaign. Just as importantly, he also scored a brace in the 5-0 win over Bradford City at Wembley which gave them major silverware in the League Cup.
De Guzman then agreed to remain at the club for a second campaign, and he has again been a regular feature in the first team squad. The 26-year-old has made 42 appearances this term in all competitions including the UEFA Europa League, and after his two-goals helped sink Norwich City on Saturday, Garry Monk made his intentions clear.
“I would imagine he is a player who is at the top of our list, he is a very good player and he suits how we play,” said the Swans coach, who replaced the axed Michael Laudrup on a caretaker basis earlier this term. “He enjoys it here and he has thrived so he would be an important signing, but we have to speak to the player and see what he thinks.”
The midfielder still has two years left on his contract at parent club Villarreal, who are looking for a top-six La Liga finish this season. When asked if he is likely to stay in Wales beyond this campaign, de Guzman said: “I have let everyone know I am happy here, so let’s see what happens. They are great people, great players and a great club.”
The victory over the Canaries has edged Swansea ever closer to retaining their top-flight status, and it would now take a huge collapse for them to drop into the Championship. Currently in 13th position, Monk’s side are on 33 points, and whilst this wouldn’t necessarily secure safety, they are seven clear of the relegation zone.
