Southampton’s transfer window has been a rather productive one so far as Mark Hughes prepares his side for the new season, but there is still plenty of room for improvement before the window slams shut.
After struggling desperately to avoid relegation last season Southampton have made great strides in the transfer market this summer, most notably with the signings of both Mohamed Elyounoussi and Jannick Verstergaard. The former was in electric form for FC Basel last season on the left-wing where he used his fantastic technical and physical ability to score 11 goals and provide 15 assists in the Swiss Super League from just 33 appearances.
The supporters will certainly be hoping that their recent acquisition can inject a level of attacking spark which was so obviously missing last season, but he cannot be expected to single-handedly transform the attack on his debut season in the Premier League.
With that in mind, Southampton will need to delve into the transfer market to sign at least two more players before the window is closed to strengthen the spine of their squad.
Although they certainly will not arrive for anything other than a hefty price, Southampton should explore the possibility of signing these two players next season…
Southampton have plenty of centre-forwards on their ranks, but each and every one of them have glaring frailties that are disrupting the club’s progress: Charlie Austin is injury-prone, Manolo Gabbiadini is inconsistent and Shane Long will inevitably start to fade now he is 31-years-old, so the arrival of a new striker could transform their fortunes.
Marega is reportedly a target for West Ham and valued at £22 million, which represents fair value for a proven goalscorer in the current economic climate.
The Mali international scored 22 goals and provided 5 assists from 29 outings in Liga Nos with FC Porto last season whilst playing slightly behind the striker or on the right-wing.
His versatility to play in a multitude of attacking roles is one of his biggest selling points, and his powerful lung-bursting bursts forward with the ball at his feet as well as his natural finishing ability could provide Southampton with a valuable weapon next season.
Aaron Mooy (valued at £9 million by Transfermarkt) is certainly Huddersfield’s most indispensable player and wouldn’t come cheap, but his ability to influence the game effectively at both ends of the pitch is one which is difficult to come by.
In truth Southampton are light on quality in central midfield, and a player like Mooy could help to bring the best out of Mario Lemina.
Mooy has an excellent range of passing with the vision to spot his teammates in promising positions, and he carefully balances his playmaking quality with his determined pursuit to recover possession at every opportunity.
A true fighter with plenty of technical quality to bring to the table, Mooy would be a huge addition to the Southampton squad.
