Southampton goalkeeper Fraser Forster could stay put at the club beyond the summer transfer window, according to journalist Tom Barclay.
The Lowdown: Forster impressing this season
After struggling for minutes earlier in the season, the 33-year-old has impressed of late, starting six matches since the turn of the year.
Forster performed well in the hard-earned 1-1 draw at home to champions Manchester City, earning a 7.29 rating from WhoScored, and kept a clean sheet against Everton last weekend.
However, the Englishman’s current Saints deal expires at the end of this season, at which point a vital decision needs to be made regarding his future.
Should Southampton sign Spence?
Yes, terrific player
No, bigger priorities
The Latest: Forster could stay at Southampton
Speaking to GiveMeSport, Barclay claimed that Southampton are considering extending Forster’s stay at St Mary’s.
The journalist revealed: “I wouldn’t be shocked now if he can sustain it, if there was a conversation. I’m told that could happen if he continues putting in his performances. He would have to take a wage drop, I’m not sure what he’s on, but I’m pretty sure it’s high.”
The Verdict: Worth a short-term extension?
Assuming Forster is happy to take a reduction on his £72,000-a-week salary (the joint-third highest at St Mary’s) and continue to battle for playing time, retaining his services for another season or two feels like a no-brainer for Southampton.
He boasts plenty of experience in the Premier League with 123 appearances in the division, not to mention winning six caps for England, and at 33 he is still far from old as far as goalkeepers are concerned.
If all parties can come to an agreement to keep him at the club, it would be a positive piece of business by Saints to keep hold of a proven top-level performer who has been shown plenty of trust by Ralph Hasenhuttl of late.
In other news: Saints already ‘know’ who will replace Ralph Hasenhuttl
About the Author
