Southampton are now the frontrunners to sign Rennes forward Jeremy Doku, having made a recent enquiry, according to a recent report.

The Lowdown: Saints targeting forwards

Southampton have been trying to strengthen in attacking areas since the beginning of the January window, with Nathan Jones not convinced by his current options' chances of firing his side to Premier League safety.

Winger Mislav Orsic has already been signed, while the Saints have also been linked to Chuba Akpom and made an offer for Lorient striker Terem Moffi, and now they could be set to target another Ligue 1 player...

The Latest: Doku enquiry made...

According to a report from Foot Mercato (via TEAMtalk), Southampton have made enquiries about the 20-year-old, with Jones looking to further bolster his squad this winter.

It is said that the Saints are firmly in the race for the attacker's signature, who is regarded as one of the most exciting wingers in Europe, and would set the club back around £23m.

However, the injury to Martin Terrier may force Rennes to 'think twice' about selling Doku.

The Verdict: Make it happen

Given Southampton's current position, sitting bottom of the Premier League, three points from safety, it would take a major coup to tempt the starlet into a move, but if they can, it is a deal that they must complete.

Lauded as 'direct & explosive' by football scout Jacek Kulig, the youngster's supreme talent was on show in Rennes' most recent Coupe de France match, scoring and completing two dribbles in the 2-1 victory, more than any other player on the pitch.

Dribbling is one of Doku's main strengths, completing an average of 5.89 per 90 in the last year, in the 99th percentile compared to his positional peers, while an average of 0.33 assists in the same time period places him in the 98th, making him the perfect signing for Jones, as he is clearly capable of crafting very good opportunities.