Swansea City have annouced that they have today bolstered their ranks with the addition of former Premier League winger and free agent Yannick Bolasie on a short-term contract, subject to international clearance, according to official club media.
The former Crystal Palace and Everton man, who has spent the last two years out in Turkey with Rizespor, joins the Swans after scoring 20 goals in 55 appearances in the Turkish top flight before leaving at the end of last season.
Bolasie made a name for himself at Crystal Palace back in 2012, helping them win promotion to the Premier League in 2013. After three seasons in the top flight with the Londoner’s, he earned a big money move to Everton in 2016. However, it didn’t really work out for him at Goodison Park and after only 32 appearances, he was sent out on loan four times, including two separate stints in the Championship with Aston Villa and Middlesbrough.
The 34- year old Congo international revealed his delight upon the announcement, saying:
“I’d like to think I can add something to the group on and off the pitch.
“I’ve played in different countries and different leagues, and I am here to help the team and play to the best of my ability.
“I would like to think I will bring something on the pitch with the way I play.
“Over the years I’ve always played in different positions, as a number nine, a seven or 11, and sometimes even behind the striker.
“I’ve got a wealth of experience now, I’ve adapted to play those types of roles and I’d like to think I can come and do that here.
“I think that might be one of the reasons the club brought me here, because I can play all three positions.”
Swansea fans will be desperate to see their new man in action in the hope that he can propel them up the Championship. The club have confirmed that, providing international clearance can be granted in time, Bolasie should be be available for selection for Wednesday’s tough trip to Leeds United.
Writer’s View
An exciting gamble here from Micheal Duff and all invovled at Swansea, Bolasie is certainly a player who on his day can win a football match all by himself. It’s just a case of building up minutes and confidence but all in all, the Swans could have made a very shrewd acqusition this afternoon.
Bolasie can really nail down a place in a Swansea attack which can easily score more goals with his arrival, with his trickiness and direct running a big part to his game. If he can add an attacking output by producing goals and assists, then this will definitely go down as a smart piece of business, especially as they have not had to pay a fee.
