Swansea's Garry Monk dismisses Ashley Williams transfer rumours

Swansea skipper Ashley Williams was a £400,000 buy from Stockport in May 2008

Boss Garry Monk says Ashley Williams is staying at Swansea despite speculation linking him with other clubs.

The centre-back, 30, has been courted by a number of clubs over the past few seasons and is thought to be a current target for Everton and Crystal Palace.

But Monk says there is no substance to reports linking the Swansea and Wales captain with a transfer elsewhere.

"You can't stop speculation or anything like that, but... it's exactly the same situation," Monk said.

"He's the captain of our club, he's captain of his country.

"It's a big year coming up for himself and he'll be doing very well in a white [Swansea] shirt."

Williams signed a three-year contract extension in July 2014 and it is thought it would take a massive offer to prise him away from the Liberty Stadium.

Everton are rumoured to be lining up Williams as a replacement for John Stones, if Chelsea persevere with their attempts to prise the 21-year-old from Goodison Park.

Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew is thought to be a long-time fan of Williams, who has won 51 Wales caps.

Monk was speaking after watching his side complete their pre-season programme with a 0-0 draw against Spanish side Deportivo La Coruna.

Swansea begin their Premier League campaign on 8 July away to champions Chelsea.