Southampton will eye improvement from last season in an attacking sense. Indeed, it was the closest the Saints have come to relegation since their promotion back in 2012, largely down to their inability to put the opposition to the sword. 

Still, during their opening encounter against Burnley, in what was a battle of the goalkeepers, neither side had the quality to put the ball past either shot-stopper in goal and consequently, the scoreline remained at 0-0. 

Southampton in the first half especially lacked a creative spark that could bring the game to life, someone like Sofiane Boufal, who is valued at £10.8 million on Transfermarkt. 

The 24-year-old will not be spending his time at St Mary’s this season, having been loaned out to Spanish outfit Celta Vigo. 

Ever since joining the Saints in 2016 for a record fee at the time, Boufal has failed to consistently deliver, sparking this loan deal. As well as falling out with Mark Hughes, (which doesn’t exactly help his case) Boufal will now find it even harder to make a successful comeback with Southampton. 

If somehow all of these issues can be placed in the past, the 24-year-old can concentrate on being an asset for Mark Hughes and Southampton. 

The winger needs to work on being a constant threat as previously he has shown moments of brilliance but they have been few and far between. 

Southampton do also have quality on the wing, with Nathan Redmond and now Mohamed Elyounoussi but should one of those players get injured or struggle with form, Boufal would have been a good option as a replacement for either. 

For a player that figured consistently on the wing last season, (26 league appearances) Sofiane Boufal would have continued to be a good option despite their new record signing addition in Mohamed Elyounoussi. The skilful winger guarantees a moment of magic and if given a proper run, Boufal could finally prove why he was worth the money. 

Do you agree or is a loan best for Sofiane Boufal... Let us know!