Swans complete Williams signing

Swansea City have completed the signing of Stockport loanee Ashley Williams in a club-record deal.

The 23-year-old Welsh international defender will cost almost £400,000 when his move is made permanent on 1 June.

It breaks the previous record of £340,000 paid out to Liverpool for Colin Irwin in 1981.

Williams, who signed an two-year deal with an option for a third year based on appearances, is manager Roberto Martinez's first summer signing.

A statement from Swansea City said: "All negotiations have been concluded and paperwork completed in readiness to be lodged at Football League headquarters during the first week of June."

Williams enjoyed a whirlwind 24 hours in March first making his full Welsh international debut and then joined the Swans promotion challenge on loan.

The statement added: "The fee agreed with Stockport County is set to reach £400,000, which will make Ashley the most expensive player in Swansea City's history.

"He adds to the growing band of players at the club qualified to play for Wales with Ashley's international future expected to be long and fruitful."

Williams played five times this season making his full debut in the 0-0 draw at Carlisle United.

He also featured from the start four days later in the 2-1 win at Gillingham that sealed the Swan's promotion to the Championship for the first time in 24 years.

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