Amat's dream Swans move
28th June
New Swansea City signing Jordi Amat admits he has fulfilled a dream after clinching his move to the Barclays Premier League.
The Spaniard resisted interest from other clubs in order to join the Swans on a four-year contract following a £2.5million switch from Espanyol.
Centre-back Amat, who is comfortable in any position within the defence, becomes the second Spaniard to head to South West Wales this summer following the capture of Real Betis midfielder Jose Canas.
And he revealed his delight as he looks ahead to playing under Michael Laudrup with the Capital One Cup holders.
"I am very happy to join Swansea. One of my dreams has been to play in the Premier League, and I can do that here with Swansea," said Amat, who will be a part of the squad travelling to Holland for the pre-season tour on Wednesday.
"I am very grateful to the chairman and Michael Laudrup for giving me this opportunity and showing a lot of faith in me. My target now is to repay their faith and do everything I can to help the team.
"I watched Swansea last season - what the club achieved was incredible. To finish in the top half of the Premier League and win a trophy too is a massive achievement.
"In Spain, Swansea are very famous now. They talk a lot about the club and how they have become a successful team in the Premier League with an attractive style of play.
"So to be a part of the team is a big moment for me. The club has a great set-up - the stadium is lovely and I know it's full every game, and I can't wait to run out in front of the supporters for the first time."
After spending 12 years at Espanyol, Amat was keen to pay tribute to his former club.
"I want to thank Espanyol for the amazing time I had there," added Amat, who scored his first professional goal while on loan at Rayo Vallecano last season with a stunning 50-yard strike.
"I have spent 12 years with Espanyol, and I owe them a lot for giving me the opportunity to make it as a professional footballer.
"I have great memories from my time there, and it will always be my home.
"I would also like to thank the supporters, because they were always behind me and showed me great support. It is something I am very thankful for."
