EXCLUSIVE: Steve Cooper demanding bumper new Swansea City deal

TEAMtalk can reveal Swansea City boss Steve Cooper is looking for a significant pay rise from the club as his reputation in the game grows.

The Swans’ US owners have already indicated that they are in talks, but we understand that Cooper is wanting a big upgrade on his current deal. Co-owner Jason Levien admitted in February that the Championship club were ready to explore the possibility of opening talks over a new deal:  “Sure. I think that’s right,” he said when asked about the possibility of Cooper receiving a contract extension.

Cooper though believes his standing in the game is now befitting of a deal that reflects as much.

The former England U17s boss has guided Swansea into third place and they are only six points behind Watford in second spot with a game in hand. So automatic promotion to the Premier League in only his second season in charge is a distinct possibility.

He has since been linked to the England Under-21 job, which is set to be vacant. Aidy Boothroyd’s contract expires this summer and there is now apparent plan from the FA to extend it.

However,WalesOnline say the current Swans boss sees his long-term future in the club game and is unlikely to be interested in a return to international coaching.

Swansea boss Steve Cooper: A cruel game

Steve Cooper says his Swansea side were the better team in their defeat to Cardiff but admits they were poor in front of goal. However, the Swansea boss maintains there’s plenty of reason for optimism around the club.

Pontypridd-born Cooper, who guided England’s U17s to World Cup glory in 2017, penned a three-year deal in June 2019.

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Cooper dismisses Palace talk

Cooper’s name has also been mentioned in connection to Premier League clubs Crystal Palace, Burnley and Newcastle. They could all be on the look out for new managers this summer.

The Sun recently suggested that Cooper could well be the man the Eagles turn to when Roy Hodgson’s contract runs out in the summer.

However, Cooper insisted last month the talk was not even on his radar.

“All of that’s irrelevant,” he said. “Not even worth talking about. We’re in this mad schedule and the only thing I’m focused on is the team and the collective. I’m preparing for the next game.

“There are no sideshows and certainly nothing to talk about. The important thing is we stick together and carry on with our work.

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