Southampton star Carlos Alcaraz is garnering interest from numerous clubs ahead of the January transfer window including Newcastle United, according to talkSPORT.
The Argentine midfielder joined the Saints last January from Racing Club for a reported fee of £12 million. His former side confirmed that a 15 percent sell-on clause was included in the transfer agreement in case of any future sale.
Alcaraz became an important player during a turbulent few months for the club last season which unfortunately ended in relegation back down to the Championship.
The 20-year-old has featured seven times in all competitions this term for the Saints but has struggled to hold down a starting place in the team under new head coach Russell Martin. As a result, several clubs have been keeping an eye on the situation.
TalkSPORT are reporting that Newcastle United enquired to Southampton about Alcaraz’s availability during the summer transfer window as Eddie Howe is said to be a big admirer of the tricky midfielder, although a deal never came to fruition.
Nevertheless, the Magpies are set to renew their interest once the window reopens, particularly considering his starts at the St. Mary’s Stadium have been limited under the former Swansea City manager.
During the summer, The Sun reported that Southampton were looking for £25 million for Alcaraz, with Portuguese giants Benfica and Bundesliga side RB Leipzig keen to secure his signature but no deal ever came to fruition.
Newcastle could offer Alcaraz a helping hand back to the Premier League over the coming months but may have to match the Saints’ asking price.
Writer’s View
Alcaraz is a fine midfielder and was one of Southampton’s brightest sparks last season in what was ultimately a dismal campaign for the club on the South Coast.
However, Martin doesn’t seem to be the biggest fan of the former Racing Club man so a move to St. James’ Park may be the solution to Alcaraz’s game-time woes.
