After bringing Adam Lallana back, Southampton could now sign another player who used to play his football at the St Mary’s Stadium.
Russell Martin has opted to inject a bit of experience into his squad in bringing the attacking midfielder – who left Southampton for Liverpool in July 2014 – back to the south coast at the age of 36 after winning the Championship Play-Off Final.
So, which familiar face could join Adam Lallana back at Southampton? Let’s take a look…
Southampton want Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
A story from Sabah in Turkey now claims that Southampton want to sign Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
The England international moved to Besiktas on a free transfer back in August 2023 after his contract with Liverpool expired, although he has endured a tough time in the Turkish Super Lig.
Oxlade-Chamberlain missed 17 games with a torn thigh muscle in his debut campaign with the Turkish giants, and Sabah state that he did not live up to what Besiktas were expecting.
Now, the 30-year-old could be coming back to England, with Southampton, Fulham and Sheffield United showing interest.
Oxlade-Chamberlain scored four goals and provided one assist in 30 appearances across all competitions last season, and has 24 months remaining on his contract, which runs until July 2026.
Risky move
While it would be romantic for Southampton fans to see both Lallana and Oxlade-Chamberlain back at St Mary’s this summer, the Saints need to think logically.
The man born in Portsmouth has been prone to injuries throughout his career, and also earns £65,000-a-week in Turkey.
Therefore, even if Besiktas agree to a cut-price sale around the £5m mark, it would still be a significant commitment for Southampton financially for a player who could miss large chunks of the 2024/25 campaign.
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Ultimately, Southampton have to decide if they want short-term romance, or to spend this money on a better, younger option for the long-term.