Southampton’s reported move for Colo-Colo winger Lucas Cepeda has been thrown into doubt after club president Aníbal Mosa publicly denied receiving any formal offers for the Chile international.
Cepeda, a left-footed attacker who has quickly made a name for himself both domestically and on the international stage, was rumoured to be the subject of a £4 million bid from the Championship outfit. However, when pressed for clarification, Mosa was clear: “We haven’t received anything yet. We don’t have any kind of offer.”
The Saints, who recently added centre-back Joshua Quarshie from Hoffenheim in a £3.5 million deal, are known to be exploring attacking reinforcements as part of new head coach Will Still’s squad overhaul. Yet, for now at least, a move for Cepeda appears to be speculation rather than substance.
Ambitious Winger Open to European Switch
Despite the denial, a deal cannot be entirely ruled out. Cepeda has previously expressed his desire to test himself abroad, telling Chilean media last month:
“I’ve seen everything that’s been said on social media. If it happens, it’s welcome. I think it’s time. If an opportunity comes, it comes, and if not, I’ll keep working. Hopefully something good happens so we can achieve the dream all kids dream of—going abroad to play.”
Cepeda has impressed with Colo-Colo this year and already boasts seven senior caps for Chile, scoring three times. Known for his explosive pace and long-range shooting, he has been tipped to break into a major European league, with Southampton one of the first clubs to be linked.
The Saints’ wide options could be reshaped this summer. Ryan Fraser, Sam Edozie, and Kamaldeen Sulemana all face uncertain futures, while Tyler Dibling’s potential departure could significantly affect the club’s finances. A big-money sale of Dibling—reportedly valued at over £60 million by Manchester United—would provide the funds to pursue targets like Cepeda more aggressively.
Writer’s View
Southampton’s rumoured pursuit of Lucas Cepeda makes sense on paper—a young, high-upside international with flair and goals in his game. But the firm denial from Colo-Colo’s president suggests talk of a £4 million bid may be premature.
Still, the winger’s open desire to move to Europe aligns perfectly with the Saints’ recruitment model under Johannes Spors. If Tyler Dibling does move on, Cepeda would be an intriguing replacement—one that could ignite St Mary’s next season. For now, though, Saints fans will have to wait to see if interest becomes a firm offer.
