Now that Southampton have secured promotion to the Premier League, the focus will be on building a squad capable of staying in the top flight.
This is the unenviable task for Russell Martin and owners Sport Republic this summer after Adam Armstrong’s first-half strike saw them beat Leeds United 1-0 in the Championship play-off final.
The first priority for Southampton will be securing the permanent futures of Flynn Downes and Ryan Fraser – both of whom spent the season on loan at the club – but then the focus will shift to new players.
There are sure to be plenty of players linked this summer, as Southampton will have to navigate the difficult first window as a Premier League club.
One move that could make a lot of sense for all parties is for a former player, though, and reports suggest the signing could be imminent.
Adam Lallana set for Southampton return
That player is Adam Lallana, with the 36-year-old now in the twilight of his career.
Lallana came through the ranks at the Saints academy before playing an integral role in helping the club climb from League One to the Premier League.
With England recognition and the desire to take the next step in his career, Lallana left the club to sign for Liverpool for £25 million in 2014.
There he won the Champions League and Premier League before moving to Brighton in 2020.
Now, though, his Brighton contract has come to an end, setting up the potential for a return to the club at which it all started, Southampton.
According to a report in The Times, Southampton are keen on bringing their former captain back to St Mary’s this summer and have approached Lallana regarding a move.
Lallana’s experience could be key to Premier League survival
Lallana was spotted supporting Southampton in their play-off final win at Wembley, sat next to club legend Matt Le Tissier.
Now, with promotion secured, he could be set to play a key part in helping the club stay in the Premier League in what could well be the last season of his playing career.
Martin has also shown how much he appreciates experienced players, with 30-year-old Ryan Fraser’s loan spell as much about his quality as a player as his know-how from his long career.
A move for Lallana would be similar, with the player still undoubtedly oozing class, but also having 291 Premier League appearances to his name according to Transfermarkt.
The 34-cap England international has had his injury woes over the years, but has made 25, 16, 24 and 30 league appearances in the last four seasons, showing he can still contribute a lot on the pitch.
Only two years Martin’s junior, Lallana would have to have his game time managed but, if done effectively, he could have a real impact both on and off the pitch and it is a move that Southampton should be looking to tie up as soon as possible.