Report: Bayern's Sanches set for shock Swansea loan

Carlo Ancelotti has done his former assistant Paul Clement a massive favour.

In a move that at first glance appears peculiar, Bayern Munich stud Renato Sanches is reportedly off to Swansea City on a one-year loan, according to Sky Sports.

Ancelotti has gifted his former colleague and current Swans boss Clement the services of the 20-year-old Euro 2016 winner in a move that could prove beneficial for both sides.

From Swansea's perspective, the exits of Gylfi Sigurdsson and Jack Cork have left two holes in the midfield, and Clement is hoping to plug those with the additions of Sanches, Sam Clucas, and Roque Mesa. Sanches' versatility should suit the Swans well, while his tenacity and toughness appear ideal for the rigors of Premier League football.

The temporary switch serves a completely different purpose for the Bavarian behemoth after Sanches' growth was stunted in his maiden campaign at the Allianz Arena. The central midfielder made just a half-dozen Bundesliga starts last season languishing behind Arturo Vidal, Xabi Alonso, and Thiago Alcantara. Alonso has since retired, but with summer signing Corentin Tolisso set for a spot in Ancelotti's starting XI, Bayern is giving Sanches the opportunity for first-team minutes in hopes that he makes a next step that befits his wunderkind status.