Southampton fans in the Football Transfer Tavern have looked as if a weight has been lifted over the past few days, they are no longer drowning their sorrows at the bar but are toasting to a new era.
The deal has been finalised, Claude Puel is the new Southampton Manager. The Frenchman joins the club on a three year deal, replacing the departed Ronald Koeman who is now in charge of Everton.
No sooner was the deal completed were the rumours here in the Tavern going into overdrive over who he might bring in as his first signings.
With a number of key players having left the club in recent weeks, it is imperative that Puel gets to work quickly, bringing in replacements for his departed stars.
With that, here are THREE players that could follow Claude Puel to Southampton this summer.
Thomas Partey
One target that Puel has reportedly already set his sights on is Athetlico Madrid midfielder, Thomas Partey (Second from left).
Partey is seemingly unwanted by the Spanish club, having spent three of the last four years on loan; despite having impressed whilst away at Real Mallorca and Almeria.
He made his debut last season for his parent club, but is now reportedly looking for a way out.
The Daily Mirror are reporting that Southampton would be interested in the midfielder, who came on in the late stages of the Champions League defeat to Real Madird, on a loan basis.
The deal definitely makes sense; the midfielder draws a number of paralells with the recently departed Victor Wanyama, and the club are in desperate need of midfield reinforcements, this one could work out for both parties.
Hatem Ben Arfa
A more recognizable name this time, and it appears that Southampton are after an ex-Premier league reject in Hatem Ben Arfa.
Since leaving England, Ben Arfa has spent a few years rebuilding his reputation in France, and now reportedly is seeking a move back to England.
The Metro are suggesting that Southampton are leading the chase for the Frenchman, and with the recent departure of Sadio Mane, and you can see why.
When he was last in England it was easy to see the talent of Ben Arfa, he just wasn’t consistent enough. If the reports are true and he has managed work on his consistency, he would fit perfectly back in the Premier League.
Ahmed Musa
News of a higher caliber signing comes in the form of a reported for Nigerian forward, Ahmed Musa.
OwnGoalNigeria are reporting that Saints have put in a bid of around £25 million, which would smash the club’s current transfer record.
The 23-year-old is an impressive striker, having scored 13 league goals in Russia last season, with electric pace his most glaring attribute.
Whilst Musa is a relatively unknown name in England, his record certainly speaks for itself – and Saints’ interest seems concrete.
Watch this space.
Saints fans, we want to hear from you, would you be happy with these three at St. Mary’s? Could they bring you further success in a new era? Let us know below…
