Southampton fans in the Transfer Tavern are loving the 2018 World Cup and are keeping a close eye on the knockout stages, scouting for transfer targets.

The Saints narrowly avoided relegation last season, and Mark Hughes has begun to revamp his squad in order to improve their fortunes next year. The Welshman lost a talismanic playmaker, Dusan Tadic, to Ajax for £10m but signed Stuart Armstrong from Celtic for £7m. Hughes also completed a £16m move for Basel winger Mohamed Elyounoussi.

With their attack bolstered, defence will now be a priority for the former Stoke City boss. The Saints are yet to replace Virgil van Dijk who was an integral part of their side before leaving to Liverpool for £75m. A new centre-back needs to be signed this summer.

One man they could sign is Borussia Monchengladbach defender – Jannik Vestergaard. Valued at £12.6m by Transfermarkt, the centre-back travelled to the World Cup with Denmark; who reached the last 16 before losing to Croatia on penalties. Vestergaard has established himself as one of the best defenders in the Bundesliga in recent years, he made 32 appearances and scored three goals last year.

The Dane is a colossal defender, standing at 6ft 5in. He is not the quickest defender but has all the physical attributes to suit the Premier League perfectly. A no-nonsense player, the 25-year-old is exactly what Southampton need to strengthen their back line; he averaged five clearances per game last season (WhoScored).

Also a threat from set pieces, Vestergaard would be a fan favourite at St. Marys.

Southampton fans, thoughts?