The Saints have simply not performed as well as many here at the Transfer Tavern had predicted at the start of the campaign.

Many expected them to be right up there with the likes of Everton and Manchester United knocking on the door of European football, but for whatever reason they are currently in mid-table obscurity.

To be fair to Puel he had a lot of pressure in filling the boots of of Ronald Koeman, who worked dreams for Southampton as they qualified for the Europa League and had a great campaign.

The former OGC Nice boss probably came with bigger expectations having left an on the up team seeking Champions League football for the south coast.

The only thing he can do now is get this season over and do the very best at recruiting well in the summer.

So with that in mind, Southampton should really make sure they seal these THREE players this summer to enhance their squad ahead of the 2017/18 season….

LAYVIN KURZAWA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7B2CRlTQDwQ

The French international is having a mixed season at Paris Saint-Germain but he’s a star for sure.

He’s just not getting as much time on the pitch as perhaps he deserves and the Saints could use him as a potential replacement for either full-backs in Soares and Bertrand – who have both been linked with summer exits.

The former Monaco full-back could be a perfect fit under Puel and would also get the chance to play in the Premier League.

HATEM BEN ARFA

Another PSG player and one that many here in England are very much aware of having seen him play for Newcastle, and for some reason sit on the bench at Hull City.

The French international worked under Puel at OGC Nice where he really got the best out of him before they both left the club.

It doesn’t seem to have been a match made in heaven for the former Newcastle winger and Paris Saint-Germain; a move away could be just what is needed for Ben Arfa.

ELIAQUIM MANGALA

The Valencia loanee has been brilliant in an otherwise faulted Valencia side that is quite frankly struggling in Liga BBVA.

It is highly unlikely that he’ll have much of a career at Manchester City if Pep Guardiola has anything to say about it, as we all know if you are not wanted by him no matter who you are or how much you are worth you won’t play.

With his Champions League and Premier League experience he has, he could be a great fit at the Saints.