Southampton now have an even tougher task to keep hold of forward Che Adams this summer as two Premier League clubs have joined the race for his signature, according to reports.
With the transfer window now open and promotion back to the top-flight secured, Saints boss Russell Martin is looking to bolster his squad to avoid an immediate return to the Championship in what could be a gruelling campaign back in the promised land.
Former Southampton & Birmingham City Star Closing In On Championship Return
Southampton have already landed the signing of Taylor Harwood-Bellis for £20 million. Following the club’s 1-0 victory over Leeds United at Wembley Stadium three weeks ago in the play-off final, the obligation to buy clause in the centre-back’s loan agreement was triggered. Martin will have the 22-year-old back at the St. Mary’s Stadium ahead of their fight to remain in the Premier League next season.
Nevertheless, the club on the south coast have also been linked with some other names in the transfer window. Last week, Swansea City boss Luke Williams revealed that he expects there to be fresh interest from the Saints for defender Nathan Wood as Martin worked with the centre-half during his time coaching in South Wales.
Southampton had been keen to land Wood’s signature last season and were even willing to pay up to £10 million for the former Middlesbrough academy product, although he remained with the Swans as no deal came to fruition.
However, there may also be some players heading for the exit doors at Southampton, namely Adams. The centre-forward’s contract expires at the end of the month and he is currently away at EURO 2024 with Scotland.
Football Insider are reporting that Nottingham Forest are pushing to hijack Wolverhampton Wanderers’ bid to sign the versatile Scottish attacker this summer as the Tricky Trees’ manager Nuno Espirito Santos is keen to strengthen his forward department.
Writer’s View
Adams is likely to leave Southampton this summer. While Football Insider are claiming that Martin is keen to keep hold of the 27-year-old frontman, Forest and Wolves may be able to provide him with a more stable status in the Premier League as Martin’s side will be one of the favourites to go down.
The former Birmingham City man had an excellent season with the Saints, scoring 18 goals and recording six assists in all competitions, but if he wanted to stay at the club, he would have signed a new contract by now. As a result, it is likely that fans have seen the last of him at the St. Mary’s Stadium.
