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Southampton are among a host of English clubs to have signalled a desire to land a Denmark international this summer – and he could be signed for free.
The Saints – fresh from securing an immediate return to the Premier League under Russell Martin – are looking to bolster their squad further, having already signed Adam Lallana and Rento Takaoka.
Taylor Harwood-Bellis has also joined, after his loan from Manchester City turned into a permanent deal as a result of promotion.
So, who are Southampton now hoping to sign? Let’s take a look…
Southampton want Martin Braithwaite
TBR Football understand that Southampton have shown interest in a deal to sign Martin Braithwaite.
The Denmark international – who left Middlesbrough in 2019 – has already held talks about a return to England, with Leicester, Fulham, Brentford, Burnley and Sheffield United also expressing a desire to secure his signature.
While Braithwaite is now 33 years of age, his situation represents an attractive market opportunity this summer, with sources informing TBR Football that he can be signed for free until the middle of July due to a clause in his contract with Espanyol.
The Dane impressively scored 22 goals in 39 La Liga 2 appearances last season as Espanyol secured promotion back to Spain’s top-flight.
TBR Football also understand that Braithwaite is receiving interest from Saudi Pro League clubs as well as the aforementioned English sides – some unnamed European outfits are keen too.
The Espanyol No.22 has experienced quite a journey since leaving Middlesbrough in 2019, earning a £15m move to Barcelona in February 2020 – where Gary Lineker called him the “new Messi” after one particularly bright performance.
Russell Martin seemingly wants an experienced striker
Southampton injected some experience into their squad with a swoop for the 36-year-old Lallana, and it seems like Martin wants more knowhow in the attacking department, as Braithwaite is not the only striker over 30 the Saints are looking at.
The Daily Mail believe Southampton are willing to spend £6m to bring Danny Ings – now 31 years of age – back to the St Mary’s Stadium this summer, after he fell out of favour at West Ham.
However, the chance to instead sign Braithwaite for free could represent a more attractive option, at least financially.
READ MORE: Southampton could now also bring back player who left St Mary’s in 2011 after Adam Lallana return
Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as Southampton are expected to make more additions in this summer transfer market…