Ross Stewart, the striker who made 50 appearances for Southampton, has left the club following the expiry of his contract in late June and is now reportedly close to joining Swansea City, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke on X.
What the reports say
Coverage from football outlets states Swansea are aiming to secure Stewart as a free agent as they prepare for the 2026/27 Championship campaign. The move, if completed, would be a statement of intent from the Welsh side as they seek promotion and bolster their attacking options under head coach Vitor Matos.
- Stewart left Southampton after his contract ended in late June.
- He featured 50 times for the Saints across all competitions, recording 12 goals and 3 assists.
- Swansea are reported to be closing in on an agreement as they reinforce ahead of the new season.
Local implications for Southampton
Stewart’s departure removes a familiar attacking option from Southampton’s squad. In his time at the club he contributed to last season’s promotion push, making an impact in matches that helped the team reach the play-off final before the campaign was affected by the widely reported Spygate controversy.
For Saints supporters, the immediate questions will be how the club replaces his experience and goals, and whether younger forwards or incoming signings will step up. Stewart’s record — a useful return for a Championship striker — means his exit will be felt in the dressing room and on the pitch unless reinforcements arrive.
Career snapshot
| Appearances (all competitions) | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|
| 50 | 12 | 3 |
“He is now poised for a surprise switch to the Swansea.com Stadium ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.” — Pete O’Rourke (on X)
Swansea’s reported interest fits a wider pattern of Championship clubs pursuing proven second-tier scorers as they seek to strengthen. Stewart, now 30, arrives at this point in his career with a respectable record — sources note he has scored 105 goals in 209 career games across his previous clubs — and his next move will be watched closely by Saints fans and by rival clubs.
Southampton’s squad planning over the coming weeks will determine how the club responds. Any confirmed departure will increase focus on the transfer window business: who comes in, who departs, and how the club balances experience and youth in its attacking ranks for the season ahead.
