Unlike other summer transfer windows, Southampton are yet to undergo their annual transfer raid, which has got their fans here in the Football Transfer Tavern hopeful for a strong season ahead.
The club have so far fended off interest from Liverpool, Manchester United and Chelsea for standout defender Virgil van Dijk.
The Dutchman has been consistently linked with a move away from St Mary’s since the turn of the year and was at the centre of a controversial pursuit by Liverpool, but the Saints hierarchy are determined to keep the in-demand 26-year-old.
The south coast side to have a new manager at the helm. Claude Puel was sacked and has been replaced by Mauricio Pellegrino. The Argentine has signed a three-year contract at St Mary’s after leaving La Liga outfit Alaves.
The Saints have been linked with less incomings than departures, but there are a number of targets who could make the starting XI next season.
Take a look at the potential Southampton XI to face Swansea on the opening day…
IN GOAL
Fraiser Forster endured a season of inconsistencies in goal last time out. With the England No 1 spot up for grabs, it’s an important season for the ‘keeper.
RIGHT BACK
Cédric Soares was one of the top performers for the Saints in a mixed season under Puel, he will be vital if Pellegrino is to enjoy a better time in his maiden campaign and will want to hit the ground running.
CENTRE BACK
If Southampton can keep hold of Virgil van Dijk, it may just be their best bit of business this summer. The 26-year-old has been superb for them and could yet remain on the south-coast.
CENTRE BACK
Jan Bednarek has been the only signing of the summer so far on the south coast and the Pole could well be in Pellegrino’s plans come the visit of Swansea.
LEFT BACK
Ryan Bertrand’s performances last season have staked the Englishman’s claim for a regular spot on the national side. The defender will be looking to kick on ahead of next summer’s World Cup.
DEFENSIVE MIDFIELD
Oriol Romeu impressed sitting at the heart of the Southampton midfield last season. The former Chelsea man will be hoping to continue his good form for the club next season.
CENTRE MIDFIELD
James Ward-Prowse is another product of the Saints academy. And the England under-21 skipper will be hoping to improve on his four goals and four assists last term.
CENTRE MIDFIELD
Steven Davis made 32 appearances for Southampton last season. At 32-years-old, the experienced Northern Ireland captain will be key to organising his teammates.
LEFT FORWARD
Another Saints star linked with a move away is Dusan Tadic. The playmaker, who scored three times and provided six assists last season, is suggested to be a target of (shock) Liverpool.
RIGHT FORWARD
Nathan Redmond started last season brightly after his £11m switch from Norwich. The England under-21’s form did dip, but the 23-year-old will be keen to make a positive impression on his new boss.
CENTRE FORWARD
Charlie Austin showed terrific form before dislocating his shoulder last season. The striker will be hoping to be in the England set-up for next summer’s World Cup.
