Southampton remains in the Championship’s remarkable automatic promotion chase as the season nears its finale.
The South Coasters are now in fourth place, nine points behind Leeds United at the top with two games in hand.
Behind the scenes, discussions about the summer transfer window and potential incomings will already be taking place.
Indeed, a lot will rely on which division Southampton ends up in, as this will determine their budget.
Southampton F.C. News spoke exclusively with HITC journalist Graeme Bailey on the club’s alleged interest in Matias Soule.
Southampton’s pursuit of Matias Soule may affect Carlos Alcaraz
Last week, the Saints expressed interest in Juventus winger Soule, who is presently on loan at another Serie A club Frosinone.
Bailey provided an update on Southampton’s interest: “It’s an interesting one with Matias Soule, and we saw the link with Southampton.”
“He’s doing incredibly well at Frosinone. I know Juventus is looking into bringing him back, but they won’t make a decision until the summer.
“Him going back might impact on Alcaraz (Southampton future).”
Surprisingly, it appears that a domino effect could develop if the South Coasters go for the highly rated Soule.
Southampton target Matias Soule will be in high demand
Looking at Soule’s statistics, it’s simple to see why Juventus values him at £34 million.
The 20-year-old wide player, who has represented Argentina at the youth level, has 10 league goals and two assists this season.
According to FBREF, Soule is in the top 9% of players in Europe for successful takedowns and in the top 15% for shot-creating actions.
Al-Ittihad of the Saudi Pro League had their £21 million deal for the left-footed playmaker rejected in January, indicating that Juve intends to maintain their superstar unless a large offer comes in.
Clearly, for Southampton to have a chance of acquiring Soule, they will need to achieve promotion to the top division, since he will be pursued by a number of great clubs on the continent and beyond.
Perhaps the South Coast outfit might consider suggesting a trade deal with Alcaraz included, as he does not appear to have convinced Russell Martin.
Saints were pleased to include a £40 million buyout clause in his Juventus contract, indicating that they would be willing to sanction a permanent departure at the right price.
