According to journalist Mark McAdam, Villarreal have had a bid turned down for Southampton transfer target Arnaut Danjuma.

The Lowdown: Saints eye Danjuma

The Saints have been linked with a move for the Dutchman (Hampshire Live), who currently plays for Bournemouth in the Championship.

However, Southampton are yet to make a concrete move for the 24-year-old, and they have now been beaten to the first approach.

The Latest: Danjuma bid rejected

As tweeted by McAdam, Europa League winners Villarreal made a €15m (£12.8m) bid for the Netherlands international.

However, that offer was turned down by the Cherries.

The Verdict: Hasenhuttl must make his move

Danjuma was one of the Championship's best players in 2020/21. He was named in the division's Team of the Season (Sky Sports) after scoring 17 goals and providing eight assists in all competitions (Transfermarkt), while he was labelled "exceptional" by his manager Jonathan Woodgate towards the end of last term (The Official EFL Podcast).

He is a player who could be an inspired signing for Southampton, but only if they make their move. Villarreal have already made their interest in the winger clear by presenting an offer to Bournemouth, so if Ralph Hasenhuttl and co really want to capture the winger, they must do the same before it is too late.

In other news, many Southampton fans want this man to leave the club.