Southampton are preparing for their return to the Premier League but the Che Adams transfer saga is threatening to become an unwanted distraction.
Manager Russell Martin has done a stellar job in his year at the club so far, rebuilding the relationship between the team and fans whilst earning promotion; even overhauling the playing style in the process.
Now, the 38-year-old has his toughest job yet as he aims to build a side capable of staying in the Premier League.
22-year-old Taylor Harwood-Bellis has already signed permanently following a successful loan in which the terms stipulated Southampton were obligated to complete his £20 million signing if promoted.
Fellow loanee Ryan Fraser looks set to join him in making the permanent switch, with a deal reported to be agreed for the Newcastle United winger.
However, one saga looks set to rumble on, with journalist Alan Nixon revealing when the Saints can expect a decision on the future of Che Adams.
Southampton will have to wait for Che Adams decision
Adams is one of a trio of senior Southampton players out of contract this summer.
Stuart Armstrong will see his six years at the south coast club come to an end, with Southampton confirming via their retained list that the 32-year-old will move on following the expiration of his deal.
In the retained list, the Saints also explained that discussions with Adams and Alex McCarthy are ongoing regarding extending their stay and no decision has yet been made.
McCarthy’s recent play-off heroics following coming in for the injured Gavin Bazunu has seen the club spring into action to offer him a deal, but Adams has a contract offer on the table for most of the season.
Having constantly been linked with a move away over the past couple of seasons, it was widely accepted that this season would be Adams’ last at the club and reports of talks with Wolves and Nottingham Forest only added to the feeling the striker’s departure was inevitable.
However, the update from the club suggests there is still a chance the 27-year-old stays and Alan Nixon has now revealed on’X’ when a decision can be expected on his future.
Nixon was asked where he thinks Adams will end up and responded: ‘Wolves and Forest in and the lad also has Southampton. Can’t imagine he decides until after Euros. And can’t imagine clubs will want that either.’
Southampton can’t afford to wait for Adams
With Scotland’s Euros campaign kicking off with the opening day curtain raiser against hosts Germany on Friday, it could be a while until any decision is made.
Even if Scotland were to exit at the group stage they would not leave the tournament until June 23rd and there is likely to be a period of time between Adams’ international duty ending and a decision being made.
Regardless of whether Adams stays or not, Southampton need to sign a proven goalscorer this summer if they are to avoid facing the same fate they did last time they were in the Premier League.
Perhaps it is best for the club to prepare under the assumption the former Birmingham City striker does move on, particularly as he has proven in the past he is far from prolific at the top level.
Any hopes for a swift resolution to the forward’s future seem misguided and Southampton need to ensure the saga does not rumble on all summer.