Southampton are now confident of capturing Manchester United full-back Brandon Williams on loan for the 2021/22 campaign following more talks between the clubs [Daily Mail].

The Lowdown: Southampton get busy ahead of 2021/22

Moving into 2021/22, many onlookers on the South Coast will be desperate to see how manager Ralph Hassenhuttl goes about trying to improve on his sides disappointing 15th placed finish last term.

Making inroads in regards to transfer business, they have tied up deals for Stade Brest left-back Romain Perraud alongside England winger Theo Walcott on a free transfer.

Could they now be close to a third summer signing following recent developments?

The Latest: Southampton closing in on Williams loan deal as talks progress

Currently speaking, the Saints look to be closing in on a deal to land 20-year-old Williams on a season-long loan agreement [Daily Mail].

Discussions are progressing well between the clubs which will provide encouragement to Southampton fans as they look to strengthen their full-back depth [Daily Mail].

Interestingly, the England Under-21 cap was wanted on a similar deal at St Mary’s last summer, however the Red Devils chose to keep their young asset following an impressive breakthrough year.

The Verdict: Good deal for all parties subject to completion

This could be an ideal agreement for both clubs as well as the player himself.

In need of regular first-team football, Williams would relish the opportunity to challenge for a first-team spot at Southampton, in both the right-back or left-back positions he is capable of functioning in - he and Perraud could line up on opposite flanks.

In 2020/21, the defender made 15 appearances for the Manchester giants, recording a solitary assist [Transfermarkt].

Comfortable on the ball, he averaged a commendable passing accuracy score across the campaign of 86.6%, which would be in-keeping with Hasenhuttl’s high-octane style of play [WhoScored].

In a critical stage of his development, there is considerable scope for him to grow with experience and responsibility for Hassenhuttl’s men should he make the switch.

Once labelled as ‘absolutely outstanding’ by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, we feel he would be an ideal addition for the Saints this window [United in Focus].

In other news, Southampton fans rage at a controversial transfer update.