Southampton have opened talks with Peterborough United over the potential transfer of defender Ronnie Edwards, according to talkSPORT.
The 21-year-old is expected to depart the Weston Homes Stadium this summer after catching the eye of a number of Premier League clubs. Posh have built a solid reputation when it comes to nurturing talent. Edwards is the latest in a long line of players who could attract a big fee, with both Ivan Toney and Ephron Mason-Clark both generating £5 million fees in recent years.
Darren Ferguson’s team failed in their pursuit of Championship football last season, falling in the League One play-off semi-final for the second season running. However, it was widely considered a success after finishing fourth behind big-hitters Portsmouth, Derby County and Bolton Wanderers.
Edwards was an ever-present in the heart of the defence, making 55 appearances in all competitions. A third season of third tier football looks to be off the cards, with reports claiming Peterborough will agree a sale if their valuation of just over £10 million is met.
Southampton are the first team to make contact with the Cambridgeshire outfit, as they hope to steal a march in the race for his signature. The Saints are gearing up for Premier League football after making their stay in the Championship a short one. They earned promotion at the first time of asking via the play-offs last month and they are now looking to bolster their squad in a bid to avoid a repeat of their relegation in 2023.
The former Barnet youngster looks to be high on the priority list. He is thought to have a big future and was the subject of multiple bids in January. It is said that West Ham United failed with two offers of around £4 million, whilst Swansea City were knocked back on four occasions. Chelsea have also been linked with the European under-19 Championship winner.
Writer’s View
It’s no surprise to see interest in the defender so early in the transfer window. There are many clubs thought to be keen on the youngster, who has excelled during his short career in senior football to date.
Southampton are unlikely to have a free run here. News of their initial talks with Peterborough could spark a flurry, and Darragh MacAnthony’s phone could be very busy over the next few weeks. This plays into Posh’s hands when it comes to receiving what they want for the player, although they will be wary that he is about to enter the final year of his contract. However, this will not cause them to budge in their valuation, as seen with the Jonson Clarke-Harris saga last summer.
Head of Writing
