Q2) With the transfer deadline upcoming, who would be the ideal deadline day signing that Saints could make and why? Which players would like to see leave the club too?
Despite being content with our centre back options, bringing in a fresh face would still be a positive move. In my opinion, bringing in Manchester United youngster Axel Tuanzebe on loan with an option to buy would certainly be an interesting move.
The 21 yard old Englishman played twenty eight times for Aston Villa last season, with his partnership with Tyrone Mings integral in the Villans promotion push. Despite the Red Devils looking to give youth a chance this season, new signing Harry Maguire, Eric Bailly (when he returns from injury) Victor Lindelöf, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are all above him in the pecking order – meaning game time outside domestic cup competition is unlikely to say the least.
Looking at departures, the Saints must look to offload Charlie Austin and one of Alex McCarthy or Fraser Forster before the 5pm deadline, but can be patient with Mario Lemina, Guido Carrillo, and Mohammed Elyounoussi as moves abroad can be sealed all the way up until the end of August – so can wait for the right deal for these players.
I would also like to see one of Harrison Reed or Callum Slattery depart on a loan move, as I can’t see them both getting regular minutes this season.