What if Swain became a melee while using his ultimate?

I love the champion but I never understood why he didn't use his demon claws to tear people to shreds instead of still using ranged autos. It would make more sense if he was a melee champion in bird form. His autos could scale with AP/do make magic damage, have increased move speed and attack speed to be able to claw/devour people. It would synergize with his kit and theme as well.