Southampton have made an 'offer' to sign Lecce defensive midfield star Morten Hjulmand with the Serie A side giving a reply.
The Lowdown: Saints eye Hjulmand move...
The Saints have been linked with a move for Hjulmand in this January transfer window with reliable journalists like Fabrizio Romano sharing news of their interest.
Indeed, it is believed that Nathan Jones' side have been tracking the Dane in recent weeks amid their search for upgrades at St. Mary's.
Southampton are currently locked in a relegation dog-fight, laying bottom of the table with four wins in 20 and just one victory in their last five games.
The Latest: Southampton make offer...
Now, according to TUTTOmercatoWEB reporter Marco Conterio on social media, the south coast side have made a bid to sign Hjulmand worth around €11 million (£9.6m).
While Lecce have already replied by rejecting the proposal, it is believed Southampton could return with an improved offer.
Conterio stated:
"The #Southampton wants Morten Hjulmand of the #Lecce . 11 million offer rejected by Salento but #SaintsFC can raise for the midfielder."
The Verdict: Get it done...
The 23-year-old has been a crucial player for Lecce in Serie A this season, leaving little surprise the club require more than £9.6m to let him leave before January 31.
Hjulmand is a colossal defensive presence in front of their back four with only three of his teammates playing more league minutes than the Scandinavian talent.
According to WhoScored, the midfield man ranks as their second-best performer by average match rating and has racked up four Man of the Match awards - more than any Lecce player.
Defensively, the 6 foot 1 colossus averages more successful tackles and interceptions made every game than anyone in Lecce's squad with Hjulmand proving vital as they steer clear of relegation to Serie B.
In terms of solidarity and real potential, Hjulmand fits the Southampton transfer profile and he could be their next answer to former star Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg - if they can get a deal done.