Southampton are desperate to sign a top forward in the summer window.

The Saints narrowly avoided relegation last season following a dismal campaign. Mark Hughes replaced Mauricio Pellegrino and impressed enough to be given a long-term contract at St. Marys. The Welshman has made four permanent signings as he looks to return his side to the right end of the table.

It’s no secret that Hughes wants to sign a new forward this summer with Charlie Austin and Manolo Gabbidini failing to find the back of the net consistently last year. Recent reports linked the Saints with a move for Liverpool striker Danny Ings, but despite the speculation, the former Burnley man is not on their radar. Instead, Southampton should look to La Liga for their next forward and sign Celta Vigo star – Maximiliano Gomez.

Valued at £22.5m by Transfermarkt, the Uruguay international was unstoppable last season, netting an impressive 18 goals in La Liga. It was not only his goalscoring exploits which caught the eye as he chipped in with five assists for his team-mates. Gomez would be an excellent addition to the Southampton squad.

A deadly finisher, the 21-year-old has all the attributes to be a success in the Premier League. A powerful, physical forward – he would have no trouble adapting to life in England. Gomez loves to operate in the box and would be a dream forward partner for new signing, Mohamed Elyounoussi.

At just 21, Gomez’s best years are ahead of him. The Saints need to steal a march before one of Europe’s elite come calling for his signature.

Southampton fans, thoughts?