Southampton are interested in signing Benfica left-back Nuno Tavares, according to O Jogo [via Sport Witness].

The Lowdown: Departures in Hampshire

Looking ahead to the new season, the Saints will undoubtedly be looking towards acquiring reinforcements after an underwhelming 15th-placed finish in the 2020/21 campaign, after which the club issued their retained players list, which heralded some notable absentees.

Squad members such as Jake Hesketh and Josh Sims are among those to move on, although long-serving left-back Ryan Bertrand is the most high-profile departure [Southampton FC]. Set to join Leicester City on a free transfer [Football Insider], he leaves a sizeable void in the left-back area.

Could Nuno Tavares be the man to succeed the England international at St Mary's?

The Latest: Saints and Napoli interested

The Saints are currently said to be monitoring Tavares alongside Italian giants Napoli [O Jogo, via Sport Witness].

Seemingly, the 21-year-old could be open to a move to the south coast. Southampton are rumoured to have ‘requested information’ on the Portuguese native [O Jogo, via Sport Witness]. Spectacularly, the youngster has fuelled speculation over his future after a video emerged of him complaining over his lack of first-team opportunities ahead of his positional rival Alex Grimaldo [Prime Time Sports].

His next move 'remains on the table', signifying there could be some traction to these latest developments [O Jogo, via Sport Witness]

The Verdict: Tavares would be a good signing, if he amends his attitude

Showing competence in attack and defence, Tavares has helped his side to earn eight clean sheets in 2020/21, whilst also completing 1.8 dribbles per game on average [WhoScored].

In terms of playing ability, the 21-year-old would probably fit nicely into the St Mary’s fold this summer. Furthermore, the advantageous nature of his age would mean a near-certainty of high resale value further down the line - he is currently valued at just £6.3m by Transfermarkt.

However, in light of the video about Grimaldo, his attitude needs work, especially in as competitive an environment as the Premier League. If Tavares could prospectively keep a lid on his temper and not land himself in hot water needlessly, he could have a very big future in the game.

In other news, ex-Saints vice-chairman Les Reed lifts the lid on his relationship with the club owner.