Southampton may have to show a ruthless streak as they look to upgrade on some of the players that helped earn promotion to the Premier League.
From finishing fourth in the Championship and promotion via the play-offs to the top flight is a big jump and some players will need replacing if Russell Martin is to extend their Premier League status beyond one season.
Ryan Manning is one such player, with the left-back having followed Martin to Southampton from Swansea City as a free agent.
The Ireland international was signed for his creativity from fullback but managed just two Championship assists in 37 games and struggled defensively.
Therefore, Southampton should be looking for an upgrade in his position this summer, even with 20-year-old Juan Larios set to return for pre-season following an injury that has kept him out almost two years.
With that in mind, here are three left-backs Southampton could target this summer.
Hugo Bueno could replace Ryan Manning
The first option is Wolves left-back Hugo Bueno.
The Spanish 21-year-old has quietly turned into a very solid Premier League full-back who is comfortable in possession and has very good delivery from his left foot.
However, Bueno found himself down the pecking order under Gary O’Neil in the 2023/24 season, with Rayan Ait Nouri preferred and even right-footed Matt Docherty playing on the left ahead of him at times.
Bueno only signed a new contract until 2026 last year, but limited game time could see him jump at the opportunity to be a regular starter at Southampton.
If he is to depart Wolves, they will make a huge profit on the £3k they paid to sign him as a 16-year-old from CD Areosa in Spain.
Southampton could raid Ralph Hasenhuttl for Kevin Paredes
Another Manning replacement Southampton may consider is Kevin Paredes.
Like Bueno, Paredes is 21 and he is currently playing at Wolfsburg under none other than former Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl.
Paredes started off as a left winger but has more recently operated as either a left wingback or left-back; having the skillset and energy to perform all three roles effectively.
Having won the USA Young Player of the Year award for 2023, Paredes scored three Bundesliga goals this season and looks set to continue his rapid rise.
One of Manning’s biggest weaknesses is his lack of pace and aggression but such woes couldn’t be further away from Paredes, who has modelled his game on Bayern Munich speedster Alphonso Davies.
Luca Netz could choose Southampton game time elite clubs
The third option is likely to be the most expensive – as well as most ambitious – of the three.
Luca Netz is another 21-year-old in a list of left-backs with huge potential and plays for Borussia Monchengladbach.
Having signed from Hertha Berlin in 2021, Netz has registered two goals and 14 assists in 82 games for Monchengladbach according to Transfermarkt.
Monchengladbach beat German giants Bayern Munich to Netz’ signature three summers ago and other clubs will surely be sniffing around this summer.
However, Southampton could offer the natural next step in Netz’ fledgling career, with a move to an elite club so soon having the potential to hamper his development.
It would be a risk, but Southampton could not only see the benefit of his talents but turn a monumental profit on the German if he continues his rapid rise.