Southampton: Arsenal want to sign Saints defender with expiring contract

Southampton defender Ryan Bertrand is reportedly close to signing a new contract with the club and has stated his desire to stay at St Mary’s for the remainder of his career.

However, reported interest from a rival Premier League club may force the 31-year-old to assess his options before committing to Saints.

According to journalists Charles Watts, Simon Collings and Jack Rosser, Bertrand is a transfer target for Arsenal as they look for additional full-back options to add to their squad.

Saints signed Bertrand back in 2014 on an initial loan deal but made his move from Chelsea permanent just six months later after he impressed, but his current deal with Saints expires in June.

Would Arsenal be a good switch for Bertrand?

You only have to listen to comments that Ryan Bertrand made in an interview with BBC Radio Solent recently to understand that he is happy at Saints and is keen to extend his contract.

Speaking to Adam Blackmore, he confirmed that the club and his representatives were close to an agreement and even stated that he sees a future coaching role at St Mary’s as a real possibility once he has finished playing.

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Arsenal are clearly looking to bring in some cover for first-choice left-back Kieran Tierney in this January transfer window – Bertrand is reportedly joined by Crystal Palace man Tyrick Mitchell on their shortlist.

When looking at the situation, it is clear that Bertrand would benefit from staying with Saints and would play more games.

Kieran Tierney is fast becoming one of the best left-backs in the Premier League and it would certainly take some strong form to displace him in Arsenal’s strongest team.

The Scotland international also has youth on his side and his development would be prioritised ahead of Bertrand playing.

A similar situation for Saints to deal with is currently being seen with Danny Ings’ own contract situation – the striker reportedly looking at other potential options to move to a top four club if possible.

Both Ings and Bertrand have a simple choice to make if they want to be guaranteed of first-team football into the future though – commit to Saints and Ralph Hasenhuttl.