Speaking exclusively to The Transfer Tavern, former Southampton midfielder Carlton Palmer believes the Saints need a new striker like Tammy Abraham, even if Danny Ings remains at St. Mary's.

Ings' contract is up next summer and the 28-year-old has been linked with a move to both Manchester City and Tottenham.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are said to be open to selling Abraham in the next transfer window, with The Telegraph reporting that the FA Cup finalists are ready to do business at £40m.

Southampton are thought to be one side who are admirers of the England international, who really impressed Matt Le Tissier last season, and Palmer feels he is a player Ralph Hasenhuttl could do with whether Ings stays or not.

When asked by TT if the Saints still needed to strengthen up front if they managed to keep hold of Ings, the retired Premier League player said:

"Yeah, for sure. You know, the one thing that wins you games... people who score goals. They haven't scored enough goals and they need goals.

"I'm sure there'd be a lot of suitors for Tammy. I don't think Chelsea are selling unless it's a lot of money, but sure [could be a good option]. Tammy just needs to go out and play."

Landing the Chelsea No.9, though, may not be easy, with the likes of Leicester City and West Ham also thought to bee keen on acquiring his services this summer.