Darren Pratley turns down contract offer from Premier League newcomers Swansea City offer & will leave on a free transfer

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Swansea City will have to adapt to life in the Premier League without midfielder Darren Pratley.

The former Swans captain will move on a free transfer next month after turning down the club’s offer of a new contract.

Pratley broke the news on the club’s official website, saying: “I’d like to thank the chairman Huw Jenkins, manager Brendan Rodgers and especially the fans for a wonderful five years but I feel the time is right for a fresh challenge.”

The timing of Pratley’s departure may surprise many as Swansea have just been promoted to the top-flight, but he may end up there anyway with Bolton Wanderers reportedly interested in signing the former Fulham man.

The midfielder made 41 Championship appearances for the Swans last season, scoring 12 goals including a memorable effort from the half-way line in a play-off semi-final against Nottingham Forest.

Pratley continued: “It’s not going to be easy for me, but if there was a good time to leave then it’s now with the club having secured their place in the Premier League.

“I hope people feel I have contributed to that rise from League One and my goal in the play-off semi-final in front of the Swansea fans was a nice way to finish at the Liberty.”

Wherever Pratley moves, he is sure to be fondly remembered in South Wales after helping the club to two promotions since moving for £100,000 in 2006.

He concluded: “I wish the club, the players and the supporters the very best of luck in the Premier League and they will always be in my heart.”

Swansea have already added to their squad ahead of next season, bringing in last season’s Championship top scorer Danny Graham to the Liberty Stadium for a club record £3.5 million fee.