Swansea City manager Steve Cooper has insisted that his attacking midfielder Bersant Celina is not for sale in the January transfer window, as Brighton & Hove Albion continue to eye up the situation.

WalesOnline is reporting that Cooper made the statement yesterday, as he aims to retain the majority of his squad with a potential playoff push on the cards during the last few months of the season.

Cooper said: "There’s no noise behind the scenes on it.

"It’s an easy one to put together. But I don’t think it’s anything more than a story to fill a column."

Following Swansea's 2-1 win over Wigan Athletic last weekend, The Sun reported that Brighton were ready to bid £10 million for the Kosovo international, with Seagulls manager Graham Potter having coached the 23-year-old during his time at The Liberty Stadium last season.

Test your knowledge of Swansea City with this quiz - Can you get 14 out of 14?

Celina has been a key figure for Cooper's side this season, as he has scored two goals in 27 games across all competitions, having been playing a slightly withdrawn role as he has found himself in a midfield three more often, as well as deputising on the wing when he has been needed.

Cooper won't want to see one of his key Swansea players depart, with a trip to Stoke City in the Championship awaiting the Swans tomorrow.

The Verdict

Cooper won't be wanting to see one of his key players go easily, and he will be determined to keep the former Manchester City youth graduate around the club for the next few months at the very least.

The Swansea manager could build his team around Celina if he felt like the opportunity was there to do so, however he already sees the Kosovan as a key component of his long-term plans for the Swans.