Swansea City boss Russell Martin has reassured supporters that they have plans and targets in place if some of their key players were to leave South Wales this summer, speaking to Wales Online.
Despite generating a sizeable amount of money for the likes of Dan James, Oliver McBurnie and Joe Rodon in recent years, the Swans are still open to selling players this summer as they look to balance the books.
Even last year, they cashed in on Connor Roberts and Jamal Lowe in late August, two players that were crucial to Steve Cooper when the Welshman was at the helm.
And another couple of key men could be set to depart in the coming months, with Flynn Downes being linked with a move to Premier League outfit Leeds United, though that move could be dependent on whether the Whites remain afloat in the top tier.
One side that will definitely be competing in the top flight next season is Leicester City, who are thought to be keeping tabs on Joel Piroe at this stage after seeing the Dutchman record 22 league goals this term, an impressive total considering this is his first season in the UK.
Their potential departures could leave a considerable void in the Swans' team - but Martin has a plan in place to deal with any potential outcome.
He said: "We’ll be ready for whatever happens. If players leave, we are ready.
"We have a succession plan for every position and every single player and that’s why we can stay calm amidst the noise and drama of the transfer window."
The Verdict:
This is an encouraging sign and considering the Swans' recruitment team did well last season to unearth some gems, they should be trusted to do the same this summer with a potentially exciting window coming up.
If they are to pursue a similar policy of recruiting bargains, one of whom could be current loanee Cyrus Christie, then they should have to cash in on some of their key players, providing their wage bill is low enough.
The departure of the likes of Ben Hamer and Korey Smith should help to minimise these salary costs and it wouldn't be a surprise to see others like Yan Dhanda depart either, so they shouldn't look to cash in on numerous key first-teamers.
If they do that, then they risk causing instability and this is the last thing Martin needs with his side still in a transition phase. A high turnover should be avoided and if they can fend off interest from others, that could be key to building on this season's progress.
Every player is for sale though at the right price and if they can negotiate a fee for a player that's way higher than their actual value, then that's the only time when they should look at letting go of some of their most crucial assets.