Swansea City have confirmed the departure of Andre Ayew. The Ghanaian international has joined Fenerbahce on a season-long loan deal, subject to international clearance. Ayew left Swansea City’s pre-season training camp in Germany and Austria to complete a medical In Istanbul.
Swans boss Graham Potter paid a small tribute to the former Marseille star and wished him all the best for his future.
I understand the circumstances of the move – it’s part of the restructure of us going forward,” he said.
“From my perspective, he has been brilliant. He has applied himself to training, supported what we are trying to do and been very professional.
“He has been a joy to work with and we wish him the best.” – he added.
The Swans had initially re-signed Ayew back in January in a club record deal worth £20 million. But, the 28-year-old failed to save the Welsh outfit from relegation. As a result of which, the Swans are bound to let go of some of their key players due to lack of prospects of playing in the second division for a number of players.
And Andre Ayew is certainly one of those star players, having played a key role for the club, especially in his first stint with the club. The Ghanaian international netted 12 goals and five assists in the 2015/16 season, which earned him a big-money move to West Ham United.
However, despite being involved in 13 goals in 43 outings, the Hammers shipped him back to Swansea earlier this year. But, after failing to find the back of the net since rejoining the club in January, a move away from Liberty Stadium was more or less inevitable, albeit a temporary one.
Fenerbahce, on the other hand, will be hugely boosted by the addition of Andre Ayew, especially given their struggles in the wide department last season. And it’s needless to say that the 28-year-old will play a key role along with Mathieu Valbuena as Phillip Cocu’s side look to pip defending champions Galatasaray in the forthcoming season.
What makes him such an appealing addition for the Turkish giants is the fact that he can be a versatile operator in the final third, who doesn’t shy away from his defensive duties.
Meanwhile, relegated Swansea City could potentially have to deal with a few more departures during the remainder of this transfer window. Alfie Mawson, in particular, has been hugely linked with a move away from Liberty Stadium following an impressive campaign with Wolves and West Ham reportedly vying for his signature.
But a line has to be drawn at some point and showing intent can go a long way in relaying a positive message to the available players. Swansea need players who can put their heads down and fight in unison and try and push for an immediate promotion.
Stats Courtesy: Whoscored
