The Swans have done the right thing and declared their captain as not for sale after they received an official approach from Crystal Palace for the lynchpin of their defence.

It has long since been rumoured that Palace were ready to make a move for Ash and so it proved as they made a move for the man that they believe will strengthen their defence for next season.

Roberto Martinez and Everton are also believed to be keeping an eye on the Williams position particularly if John Stones moves to Chelsea as is being widely speculated.

But the Swans are keen to hold onto their captain as they look to build on the squad that finished in 8th place last season and not see it move backwards with the departure of one of their key players.

From an Ashley Williams perspective this is a massive season in his career as both captain of club and country with Wales seemingly certain to grace the European Championship finals next summer in France.

Virtually every year since Williams has been here we have heard of interest from other clubs and he has so far remained loyal to the Swans and I don't see this summer being any different.

Monk has already told Talksport that he will be here for the coming season and I genuinely do not see that changing at any point.

I’ve got a good relationship with him, he’s our captain and obviously I played with him for many years as well." said Monk

“For the past six or seven years he’s been linked with a team in the summer, and whether that’s actual interest or driven by the papers and agents, I don’t know.

“But Ash is very committed to the club, he’s our captain and he’s captain of Wales as well, it’s a big year for him with qualification coming up with his country.

“I don’t think he’ll want to do anything that unsettles him, I think he’ll want to give himself the best chance to qualify with Wales and have a good season with Swansea as well.

“I know he’ looking forward to it and is fully focussed on the season ahead with Swansea.”

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