Joseph signing is a showcase of Swansea’s attraction under Cooper

Kyle Joseph’s recent move to Swansea City may have come as a surprise to some.

The 19-year-old Scotland youth international made the four hour move from deepest Lancashire to South Wales after his Wigan Athletic contract expired, with Swansea expected to pay £500,000 compensation.

Since the departure of Andre Ayew has left a gaping 16-goal hole in Swansea’s attacking arsenal, they’ve moved quickly – first recruiting Joseph, followed by Dutchman Joel Piroe from PSV Eindhoven.

And Joseph in particular is a showcase of Swansea’s newfound pulling power – especially in the market for younger players.

So, on balance, what were his options?

Joseph was a coveted entity on contract expiration. After bursting onto the scene at the DW Stadium, he bagged five goals in 18 appearances for Leam Richardson’s men. His form was a major contributor in the Latics maintaining League One status by just a point.

This along with Joseph’s noticeable attributes – 6’1, powerful and a clinical finisher – made his transfer saga one of great intrigue in the lower leagues.

Reported interest echoed from the reaches of Glasgow to North London for Joseph’s signature. According to LancsLive, the teenager was subject of at least nine clubs’ interest this summer.

These clubs vary from the Old Firm – who from their previous take an active interest in any young Scot on the rise – to Premier League giants Arsenal and Tottenham, whose financial muscle and top level lure could attract any player at League One level.

Newcastle were also interested, alongside Preston North End and Sheffield United.

So why Swansea?

Because manager Steve Cooper has arguably created the most attractive club for youngsters in the EFL.

Joseph’s aims are clear. At Swansea, there is a clarified pathway to the first team comparably to other sides’ interested. In Joseph’s position, Swans now only list Jamal Lowe, Morgan Whittaker, Joel Piroe and Liam Cullen as options. In the arduous Championship season, he is bound to get chances.

Compare it to an Arsenal or Spurs, in which Joseph would likely be featuring at Under-23 level, it is an attraction beyond finance. Newcastle similarly – despite their distinct lack of goal scorers in the absence of Callum Wilson.

Swansea also have a track record of developing their youngsters, either from within or ones picked up from other clubs.

Of Cooper’s 27 signings as Swansea manager, 15 have been under-23 – and they have arguably been some of the most successful.

The consecutive loan spells of Freddie Woodman from Newcastle have spoiled Swans’ fans with a solid stopper between the sticks, but it seems unlikely that he will remain this year.

Rhian Brewster, Marc Guehi and Conor Gallagher have all proved successful loan signings too – not to mention the permanent deals for Yan Dhanda and Joel Latibeaudiere from Liverpool and Manchester City respectively.

Cooper is likely the sole reason for this preference. Having worked at youth level for the majority of his career – including spells at Liverpool and England – the Welshman is truly fine tuned in the art of development.

Having rejected the clubs’ mentioned to come to South Wales, he has made a statement about Swansea as a prospect for all young players.

He’s good enough, he’s old enough, and he’s likely made the right call.

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