Southampton, Premier League, Saints, Aboukhlal
Southampton and sporting director Martin Semmens are eyeing a move for Morocco international Zakaria Aboukhlal, according to reports.
The Lowdown: Saints sign youngsters…
Over the summer window, the Saints’ transfer policy was made quite clear – sign young and develop with the potential of huge sell-on fees.
That saw the Premier League side complete agreements for a plethora of top young talent, perhaps most notably former Man City starlets Gavin Bazunu, Romeo Lavia and Samuel Edozie alongside 20-year-old Germany international Armel Bella-Kotchap.
Sport Republic’s takeover of the St. Mary’s side in January this year has birthed a new era for Southampton and their emphasis very much appears to be on bringing in the stars of tomorrow.
As such, reports may consistently emerge of new and promising targets entering their sights.
The Latest: Southampton ‘set sights’ on Aboukhlal…
As per a new claim, it appears the south coast side and Semmens have shortlisted another dazzling young talent.
Football Insider state Southampton have ‘set sights’ on Toulouse attacker Aboukhlal with club officials ‘impressed’ after scouting him in France.
Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side are believed to be ‘tracking’ the 22-year-old, who has also earned rave reviews for his Ligue 1 performances.
The Verdict: Get it done?
While it is arguably too early in the season to judge him overall, Aboukhlal has certainly made an excellent start to life at Toulouse.
According to WhoScored, the forward has made six goal contributions in 11 top flight starts already whilst also attempting their highest rate of shots at goal and joint-highest rate of completed dribbles per 90.
He may well be suited to the demanding nature of English football too with journalist Hanif Ben Berkane calling Aboukhlal a ‘physical monster’.
The player has been praised for his versatility and ability to play ‘everywhere‘, so there appears to be much reason for Southampton to at least consider making a move.
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