Following the captures of Melker Widell, Zeidane Inoussa and Bobby Wales, the former Bolton Wanderers captain will join the Welsh club on a free transfer after the expiry of his contract at the Toughsheet Community Stadium on July 1.
28-year-old Portuguese-born centre back Santos spent five years with Wanderers, making 207 appearances for the club, and is seen by head coach Alan Sheehan as a player who can bring experience to his young squad.
Santos’ arrival also brings much-needed cover at centre-back ahead of the new season, with Welsh international Ben Cabango currently the only recognised senior option on the books following the departures of Kyle Naughton, Hannes Delcroix and Cyrus Christie.
“I’m highly motivated,” said Santos.
“This will be a different test, a harder test, and I will push to be at my best.
“I had options to stay in League One, but I’ve come here to test myself and get the best out of myself, the gaffer is someone that can do that and I can’t wait to get started.
“I like to think that I’m someone you would want to have in your changing room. I’m full of energy and always a character that you can look up to.
“My leadership skills and experience can hopefully encourage the group and give some positivity around the building.
“The club has a history; it’s a massive club and a club that was in the Premier League. They have high ambitions and I’m looking forward to the challenge.”
Having spent time together at Peterborough United in Sheehan’s playing days Santos is a player whose qualities he knows all too well.
“We are very pleased to welcome Ricardo to Swansea City,” said head coach Alan Sheehan.
“He is an experienced player who is well-versed in the demands of playing in the EFL.
“He is a player I have known about for a long time, and someone we believe is capable of making the step up to Championship level.
“There were a number of clubs interested in securing his services, and we are delighted he has chosen Swansea City.”
Director of football Richard Montague added:
“We have identified certain areas of the squad where we recognise there is a need to have greater depth and competition, and we believe the addition of Ricardo will help us do that defensively.
“He has considerable experience of the EFL, and the fact he has been in the team of the year for his division in four of the last five seasons speaks to his consistency.
“We believe his character and leadership will be a welcome addition to the squad, and we are looking forward to him linking up with Alan and the team for the start of pre-season.”
[Lead image: Swansea City FC]
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