Southampton: Saints eye winger with 16 goal involvements this season

Southampton have been in touch with the representatives of Scottish forward Ryan Gauld ahead of the summer transfer window.

This is according to a report from the Daily Record, who claim the former Sporting Lisbon man has offers from other clubs in Europe, Asia and America.

Despite his current side SC Farense being relegated from Liga NOS this season, he has impressed and looks on track to revive what was a dwindling career. 33 top-flight games in Portugal saw him score nine goals and provide a further seven assists whilst showcasing some of his trademark dribbling skills.

With many rumours flying around and agents trying to strike a deal with many clubs for their clients, it remains to be seen whether Saints’ interest in Gauld is genuine.

Has Guald performed at a high enough level to catch Southampton glances?

Ryan Gauld made his name in Scotland and was tipped as a player of huge potential after impressing for Dundee United. He was even nicknamed “the Scottish Messi” by some.

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His performances in his homeland led to a move to Sporting Lisbon, but things failed to get going for him in the Portuguese capital. Four separate loan spells then followed, with one of them to Farense before he signed for them permanently in July 2019.

Whilst he has clearly impressed this campaign, he failed to make enough of an impact to be included in Scotland’s Euro 2020 squad.

This transfer link would seem to be a stirring of rumours if we look at the situation from the outside. Yes, Saints could take a gamble on Gauld becoming a top talent in the Premier League now he has matured, but they really are not in the position to do so at this time.

Ralph Hasenhuttl may well want a left footer and someone capable of playing in both of his number 10 positions, but it is likely that they will have more ideal alternatives lined up.

They need to sign players that will command small fees but need proven talent. The fact that Gauld has had multiple spells in his career where he has not made enough of an impact suggests that he will not be on the radar of Saints this summer.