Southampton in the race to sign Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

Southampton are one of the clubs in the race to sign Liverpool midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in the summer transfer window, according to a report from Football Insider.

The Lowdown: Oxlade-Chamberlain leaving Liverpool

According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Oxlade-Chamberlain will not be offered a new contract at Anfield, meaning he will leave the club at the end of the campaign, when his current contract is set to expire.

Injury issues have hampered the midfielder’s development at Liverpool, missing nearly a full year due to a cruciate ligament rupture during his early days on Merseyside, also absent for 14 games this season due to a hamstring problem.

The Englishman has been linked with a return to St Mary’s this season, with it being reported at one stage that Southampton were set to be ‘offered’ the chance to sign their youth product, but they may face competition for his signature…

The Latest: Southampton in the race

According to a report from Football Insider, the Saints are in the race for the 29-year-old, however they may have to fend off interest from elsewhere, with Brighton & Hove Albion and Leicester City also named as potential suitors.

It appears as though Brighton’s interest may be the most advanced, as the Seagulls are said to already be preparing a contract offer for the central midfielder.

Southampton are eager to make a move, but they are well aware that any deal will hinge upon whether they are able to retain their Premier League status, amid the relegation battle they currently find themselves embroiled in.

The Verdict: Get it done?

At 29-years-old, the 35-time England international is still at an age where he would have a lot to offer Southampton, however one major concern for Ruben Selles will be his injury record, missing a total of 88 games through issues during his time at Liverpool.

That said, when he is able to stay fit, the maestro is a proven performer at the top level, scoring seven goals and bagging two assists in the 2019-20 season, the last season he was largely unaffected by injuries.

Lauded as ‘superb’ by journalist Raj Chohan, the former Arsenal man has also impressed at times this season, scoring and creating one big chance against Brentford back in January.

As such, Southampton should undoubtedly pursue a deal for Oxlade-Chamberlain this summer, and Selles will be hoping that he is tempted by a move back to his former club.

About the Author

Dominic Lund

Editor

View All Posts