Joel Piroe says he hasn't been distracted by transfer speculation surrounding his future.
The striker has enjoyed a tremendous debut season with Swansea City, hammering home 24 goals in all competitions for the south Wales side. He has surpassed the achievements of Oli McBurnie, the last forward to hit 20 goals in SA1, who went on to secure a £20million move to Sheffield United as a result.
As such Swansea have formed their own valuation of Piroe, with his form attracting interest from Premier League outfit Leicester City, who are said to be monitoring his situation just one year into his stay in Landore.
Swansea's finances dictate that player sales are not just necessary but vital to the club's long-term viability, meaning one of their main assets will have to be sold this summer. It appears increasingly likely that it will be Piroe, with the Dutchman their most attractive prospects right now, with an honourable mention for midfielder Flynn Downes, who has also impressed.
Russell Martin would love to keep the former PSV frontman but among his various qualities, the head coach is a realist. During the final match of the season against QPR, he replaced Piroe early in the second half, believing his head had been turned by the transfer talk swirling.
"He's a young man, there's a lot of speculation and noise and I don't think he could perform at his best today because of it," said Martin. "That was it really. He deserved an ovation from the supporters for what he's given us this season.
"We have a valuation of him, and every player. If someone meets it, then so be it, we'll have to be ready. We'll be absolutely disappointed to lose such a good player, but I think he appreciates that this club's been really good for him this season, he's been really good for us and it's just been a good fit.
"I think he's grateful that we've played a certain way that highlights and complements his strengths."
"I think it puts us in a really strong position to not have to do anything, unless, again, something comes in that's life-changing for the club and the player involved," added Martin when asked if more players would have to be sold if Piroe's valuation is met.
"The valuation, it does definitely strengthen us and would change the landscape. We haven't had one call yet. I know the season is not finished for most people. Joel, hopefully like the majority of players, loves being here."
Piroe has indeed maintained his happiness at the club, but admitted anything could still happen when it comes to his future. What Swansea won't want is a long, drawn-out transfer saga this summer. They've been burnt before on that front. Piroe has rejected the notion his head has been turned but one gets the impression this only ends one way.
“It can be more frustrating for the gaffer because almost every day, he’s had an interview or spoken to someone where he has to keep answering the same question," he told The Athletic.
"I didn’t find (the rumours) distracting but I can believe it would be a bit annoying for people around me. You get asked about it from lots of people but I can tell them all the same — you don’t know what will happen.”
A recruitment source has told WalesOnline that there is " no movement at this time" regarding the forward's current situation. How long that remains to be the case will be much anticipated.
