Gomez has been a key player in the Swans midfield this season

Roberto Martinez insists he is waiting for star midfielder Jordi Gomez to just say the word and make his Swansea City loan spell permanent.

The Swans are close to agreeing a deal with Espanyol for the Spaniard who has shone with 11 goals this season.

"Our links with Espanyol are very good and everything is more or less agreed," Swans boss Martinez told BBC Wales.

"But I don't want to do anything until the player tells me he wants to be an important player for Swansea City."

The 23-year-old joined Swansea in the summer on a season-long loan deal from Spanish side Espanyol.

The Barcelona-based side are threatened with relegation from La Liga and are currently 19th in the division.

Espanyol might want to keep Gomez if they go down and are forced to sell their star players.

606: DEBATE Give your views on Jordi Gomez's contribution to the Swans this season

Asked if he would like to make his stay in Swansea permanent, Gomez told BBC Sport: "Yeah, Why not?

"I'm still an Espanyol player but if Espanyol agree a fee with Swansea, then why not?

"I like the city, the supporters are very good and we have a very good football team. I'm enjoying my time at Swansea."

Gomez has proved to be one of Martinez's most influential signings and has played a key role in the club's first season in the Championship.

Martinez added: "When we had the opportunity to give him a home, to give him an important role, we knew he would excel and that, for us, is a great feeling."

And the Swansea manager is confident a deal can be completed providing Gomez wants it.

"We know he feels at home and feels important and when a player feels that way," said Martinez.

"I'm sure that he is someone who will look forward to the future to be a big part of Swansea City.

"We want characters who want to be here and who now how important it is to put on the Swansea City shirt, and Jordi has enjoyed every single second."

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