Italian giants eyeing up moves for two Southampton stars

According to multiple sources, two Italian giants are considering moves for two of the Saints’ top players.

With Liverpool seemingly conceding defeat in their ongoing quest to sign Virgil van Dijk, it’s been reported that Italian side Juventus are keen to add the Dutchman to their ranks.

The Italian champions might have a plethora of centre-backs already, but having failed to replace the Milan-bound Leonardo Bonucci, another defender would be welcomed.

This is only emphasised by the fact that they famously deploy a three-at-the-back formation, meaning even more defenders are needed for rotation and in case of injury.

Juventus and Southampton have naturally already been involved in transfer business this summer, with Mario Lemina joining from the Turin outfit at the start of this week.

Southampton supporters have long said that they wouldn’t stand in the way of van Dijk if he wanted to leave for a European giant, meaning a move to Juventus could be the perfect solution for both player and fans.

Next: Southampton 3-2 West Ham: Match recap

Meanwhile Manolo Gabbiadini has been linked with a return to his native country, just eight months have leaving Napoli to join the Saints.

Lazio are those linked with a move for the striker, assuming they fail to keep hold of the Tottenham and Juventus-linked Balde Keita Diao.

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Gabbiadini scored just yesterday in Southampton’s win over West Ham, and is seen as an invaluable squad member by Mauricio Pellegrino, meaning a move for the 25-year-old seems unlikely,

However, Football Italia were among the first to link Southampton to Mario Lemina, a rumour which then gathered pace before becoming a reality just a few days after.

Gabbiadini leaving would mean the Saints only really have Charlie Austin and Shane Long on their books, with Sam Gallagher still linked with a move to the Championship.

With Keita valued at around £25-30 million by his suitors, Lazio would have the funds to be able to offer much that Southampton paid for Gabbiadini in January, but a move still seems far-fetched. The report however doesn’t state how much Lazio would be willing to part ways with to sign him.