Southampton haven’t had the season that many here in the Transfer Tavern had thought that they would of had.

They were knocked out early in the Europa League, sit in the bottom half of the table and most recently lost the League Cup final – not a season to remember for Puel’s men.

The Saints will now have the prospect of losing some key players to bigger clubs competing in European football next term, and one player they know they’ll struggle to hold onto at the club is Dutch centre-back Virgil van Dijk.

The former Celtic defender is already a wanted man and with how well he’s been doing, it’s easy to see why clubs like Manchester City, would come calling.

The 25-year-old leaving the club, will be tough for many Southampton punters here at the Tavern and even more so replacing him will be no easy feat.

But with that in mind, the Saints simply must be thinking ahead, so here are TWO possible replacements for van Dijk at Southampton…

BEN MEE

The former Manchester City and current Burnley centre half has been superb this season.

He’s been overshadowed by the amazing Michael Keane but he too has been vital at Burnley this season.

The Clarets are having the season of their lives and it’s only natural that clubs will come in for their best players, and Ben Mee could be one of those they struggle to keep hold of.

He’d be a great fit for the Saints as a potential replacement for Van Dijk.

BRUNO MARTINS INDI

Why not replace one Dutch centre-back with another?

Martins Indi who is currently on-loan at Stoke City from FC Porto in Portugal could be a great replacement.

Having now had a year’s experience in the Premier League and experience of playing for one of the top clubs in Europe, he could be a shrewd acquisition for Puel’s side.

Likely to come cheap also, Puel should consider a move for the Dutchman in the summer.