Southampton are conducting their transfer business quietly this summer, talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook has claimed.

The Lowdown: Three signings so far

The south coast club have already strengthened their squad in the current transfer window, having made three signings so far.

With a rearrangement of goalkeeping options towards the end of last season, the Saints made a fantastic swoop, securing the signature of highly-rated 20-year-old Gavin Bazunu from Manchester City, also adding Mateusz Lis from Altay SK to Ralph Hasenhuttl’s ranks.

More recently, Southampton announced the arrival of young defender Armel Bella-Kotchap from Bochum, who joined the club for £8.6m.

The Latest: Crook’s claim

Crook believes that deals are being done behind the scenes, but the Saints are keeping their cards close to their chest.

Speaking with GiveMeSport, he claimed: “I haven’t been able to get any firm information out of Southampton yet, but I do know they’re working on lots of targets that haven’t come out yet.”

The Verdict: Additions will be crucial

Hasenhuttl’s team visibly declined towards the end of the 2021/22 Premier League campaign, having lost their last four games, including a 4-1 annihilation at the hands of Leicester on the final day of the season.

Finishing in 15th, Southampton came close to dropping down to the relegation zone, ending the season just five points clear of Burnley in 18th.

Therefore, if the Saints are to see a big change next term and realise ambitions of a top-half finish, it is imperative that the club look to bring in a number of additions, whilst keeping hold of prized, in-demand assets like James Ward-Prowse.

Otherwise, a relegation battle could be on the cards if they are unable to strengthen their squad or keep hold of key players.