Southampton fans will be eager to avoid another relegation dogfight in the Premier League this season.

Mark Hughes was given the permanent job at St. Marys after saving the club from relegation on the final day of the season. The Saints added to their squad during the summer transfer window, and Danny Ings looks to be the striker that they have been crying out for. The former Liverpool forward has already netted twice at his new employers and will be hoping to continue his form when he returns to action.

Although the transfer window is closed, Southampton need to be keeping tabs on potential recruits when business resumes in January. If the Saints find themselves in danger, they need to act quickly to sign the right players to lift them out of trouble. A perfect January addition could be Chelsea outcast – Ruben Loftus-Cheek.

Valued at £16.2m by Transfermarkt, the England international spent last season on loan with Crystal Palace. His impressive showings for the Eagles earned him a place in Gareth Southgate’s World Cup squad. Another great showing in Russia seemingly handed Loftus-Cheek the opportunity to gain a spot in the Chelsea starting eleven.

However, the 22-year-old has played just 33 minutes in the Premier League this season following the arrival of Jorginho and Mateo Kovacic at Stamford Bridge. It appears the youngster is not in Sarri’s plans and he needs to seriously consider leaving the club on loan in order to aid his development. Southampton should aim to be first in line for his services.

A strong, powerful midfielder, Loftus-Cheek was key to Roy Hodgson improving Crystal Palace’s fortunes last season. The Englishman would have a point to prove and will desperate to make a name for himself in the Premier League.

Competition will be fierce, so the Saints must ensure they do everything in their power to bring him to St. Marys.

Southampton fans, thoughts?