Southampton have now joined the race for Sao Paulo midfielder Pablo Maia, having recently made an 'informal approach' through an agent.

The Lowdown: Interest in Maia

West Ham United have recently completed the signing of Sao Paulo defender Luizao, and it was reported by 90min that David Moyes was planning a double swoop, with exploratory talks being held with Maia.

That news came after the 20-year-old emerged as a key player for his current club in their 2022 campaign, making a total of 32 appearances in the Brazilian Serie A, and these performances also appear to have attracted the interest of Southampton...

The Latest: Southampton make approach

According to Brazilian journalist Andre Hernan, via Sport Witness, the Saints could be set for a battle with the Hammers for the Brazilian's signature, having made an informal approach about the player through an agent.

While it is detailed that no further steps have been taken for now, Sao Paulo are said to be aware of the fact that they could lose the youngster in January, paving the way for Southampton to formulate an official bid.

The Verdict: Get it done

Nathan Jones would have a real prospect on his hands if he makes Maia his first signing as manager of the Saints, as indicated by his terrific passing ability, with an average completion rate of 89.6% per 90 minutes over the past year, in the 96th percentile compared to his positional peers.

Football Talent Scout Jacek Kulig has hailed the starlet as being like a 'Mini-Casemiro', no doubt for his tackling ability, which he lists as one of his key strengths, alongside his interceptions and ability to pick out teammates with long balls.

At 20-years-old, the defensive-midfielder still has plenty of room to grow, but he has already gained good experience by making 68 professional appearances for Sao Paulo, and it wouldn't be too long before he would be at the standard to be competing for a place in the Southampton starting lineup.