Could Southampton take advantage of Leicester loaning out midfielders?
By Marc Walker
Southampton are wanting to sign a midfielder on this transfer deadline day if the right player becomes available and two potential candidates look to be available from Leicester.
According to information from reporter Rob Tanner on the Athletic’s live transfer blog, the Foxes are letting Hamza Choudhury and Nampalys Mendy go out on loan.
Choudhury was linked with Saints last summer by the Telegraph but appears to be a target for Newcastle in this window – although Tanner does admit that his move to St James’ Park is in the balance.
Mendy has never been linked to Saints but could provide an alternative option in central-midfield areas behind James Ward-Prowse, Oriol Romeu and Ibrahima Diallo.
A lunchtime deadline day #LCFC update. Lookman loan deal getting closer. Choudhury loan to Newcastle 50/50 but he also has other options if that doesn't get done. Praet to Torino advanced. Interest in Mendy.
— Rob Tanner (@RobTannerLCFC) August 31, 2021
Concrete links yet to emerge in Southampton’s deadline search
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It is important to stress that no names have been linked with a move to Saints so far despite them staying in the market for a midfielder.
The fact that Choudhury has been linked in the past could be a sign that Saints will be waiting in the wings if his move to Newcastle breaks down but, as stated before, his chances of regular game time may not improve hugely on the South Coast.
Mendy – a busy midfielder originally signed as Leicester’s N’Golo Kante replacement – is yet to set the Premier League alight and finds some strong competition ahead of him at the King Power Stadium.
In terms of outgoings, Dan Sheldon of the Athletic has stated that Yan Valery will not be leaving St Mary’s this summer as Saints try to retain their improved squad depth to combat the potential of injuries late in the season.
It remains to be seen whether moves will emerge for players on the fringes of Ralph Hasenhuttl’s squad such as Shane Long or Michael Obafemi.19 deals have happened at St Mary’s so far this summer with eight signings and 11 departures so far.
Keep an eye on our transfer live blog for development right up to tonight’s deadline.
Next. Six deadline day signings Saints made in the past. dark