Southampton: Saints transfer target wants move to Germany instead

Southampton’s pursuit of Groningen full-back Deyovaisio Zeefuik looked promising back in May when it appeared that he would be making the switch to St Mary’s this summer.

Since then though, Bundesliga club Hertha Berlin have made their interest in the 22-year-old clear and Zeefuik has now revealed exactly where he wants to move – to the German capital, and as soon as possible.

Speaking to broadcaster RTV Noord after a recent group training session, he said:

"“I want to go to Germany as soon as possible, to Hertha BSC.”"

Zeefuik was said to be available for a small fee of around £4m this off-season and brings some significant potential as a graduate of Ajax’s prestigious academy.

He played all but 45 minutes of Groningen’s 2019/20 campaign before the Dutch domestic schedule was scrapped because of the Coronavirus back in March.

The financial effects of the pandemic mean that sales of players like Zeefuik may also be vital for clubs like Groningen to keep functioning in a normal manner and prepare well for the 2020/21 season.

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Saints might not be too disappointed with this situation though.

This is because they look to have a right-back at the moment in Kyle Walker-Peters who can play Ralph Hasenhuttl’s style of football with great effectiveness and influence a game hugely from his position on the field.

He is only on loan at the moment but recent reports have implied that the club are very keen to make him a permanent addition from Spurs this summer.

The fact that Walker-Peters has performed so well during his temporary spell on the South Coast has really played into his favour.

Ralph Hasenhuttl is know to want players who can learn his footballing ideals to near perfection, and this is what the 23-year-old has continued to do in his performances since the Premier League’s restart last month.

His availability for around £10m and an understanding of the English top-flight will also make him a superb signing, with his switch to St Mary’s looking increasingly likely given that he does not look to have a future with Spurs.