Southampton: World Cup Scouted – Santiago Arias

World Cup Scouted is a regular Saints Marching series throughout this tournament, looking at a player who could add something to Southampton’s squad.

Yesterday evening England booked their place in the last eight with a penalty shootout victory over Colombia, thus ending their curse of never winning a World Cup knockout game that has gone to spot kicks.

The Three Lions showed grit and determination despite some questionable tactics from the opposition, with Wilmar Barrios appearing to headbutt Jordan Henderson as they set-up for a free-kick.

However, despite this, Colombia have played fairly well throughout the tournament, despite lacking an in-form striker and with talisman James Rodriguez spending much of the time fighting for fitness.

One player who has been relatively consistent for those in yellow is Santiago Arias, who I believe would be a great replacement for Cedric Soares if the Saints do end up selling the Portuguese full-back this summer.

Next: Could Gabbiadini thrive as an inside forward?

Whilst we’re yet to really see any solid rumours linking Cedric away this summer, there’s no denying that his solid performances for Portugal before their elimination may of seen his stock rise and therefore gotten the attention of some European teams who may not of previously been interested in him.

More from Saints Marching

• Grading the Southampton Transfer Window Part 2: Arrivals
• Grading the Southampton Transfer Window Part 1: Departures
• It’s time to talk about Gavin Bazunu
• Rain clouds on the horizon? Southampton beat Plymouth Argyle
• A lament for Southampton legend James Ward-Prowse

You have to bare in mind that the Southampton full-back played for his national side ahead of Nelsen Semedo, Ricardo Pereira and Joao Cancelo, something which won’t go unnoticed.

If the Saints are to part ways with their first-choice full-back, they’ll need someone of a similar play-style to replace him, and Arias offers that.

The Colombian is attack-minded, creative, and possesses a mean cross – traits which are all appealing to Southampton’s potential 3-4-2-1 set-up.

Arias’ current contract with PSV has just 12 months remaining on it too, meaning he could easily be available on a cut-price deal if the Dutch side are concerned about tying him down in the next 12 months – they wouldn’t want to lose someone of his quality for nothing.

Therefore if the Saints are to pursue the 26-year-old, they could pick him up for nice price, per say around £10 million despite probably being valued higher by his club.

Whilst this episode of WCS is based purely on the narrative that Cedric Soares may move on this summer, the idea of Arias replacing him is one Saints supporters should be comfortable with.