Southampton will need to consider the futures of a handful of players this summer.
The Saints are, of course, currently battling for promotion from the Championship.
Russell Martin’s squad is now fourth in the table and could be well-positioned to finish in the top six.
However, some players may need to leave St Mary’s, regardless of which division they play in next season, for a variety of reasons.
With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of three players Southampton may want to try to offload this summer.
Alex McCarthy is a big earner at St Mary’s
Alex McCarthy has had a quiet season at Saint Mary’s. The goalkeeper has only appeared once for Martin’s side, in an EFL Cup defeat to Gillingham in August.
According to Salary Sport, McCarthy is now earning £45,000 per week by Southampton. That means he’s currently the squad’s second-highest earner, which doesn’t seem justifiable considering his minimal role.
There is a strong argument that those wages would be better spent elsewhere, on a player who can have a more significant impact on the field for the Saints. As a result, it seems reasonable for Southampton to release him when his contract ends in the summer.
Carlos Alcaraz could make money for Southampton
Carlos Alcaraz, who had never truly settled at Southampton, was permitted to leave on loan in the January transfer window and join Juventus.
That transfer includes the option to buy for £40 million, although it has been speculated that the Italians would try to amend that if the move is to be permanent.
Even yet, it appears that the midfielder might still fetch a reasonable amount for the Saints if they can negotiate effectively. Given that Salary Sport reports that Alcaraz makes £38,000 per week at Southampton, this could free up some wage budget room.
Romain Perraud could make loan exit permanent
After two years at Southampton, Perraud left the club during the summer transfer window. He then returned to his native France, signing on loan with Nice.
As with Alcaraz, the trade contains a buy option, which the Saints may hope is exercised. The left-back is scheduled to enter the final year of his contract this summer, which could be the club’s last chance to sell him.
During his time at St Mary’s, the left-back also failed to make a name for himself. Meanwhile, Martin’s side now has enough depth to cover Perraud’s departure in the summer.
