Will Still's former starter Matt Ryan is tipped as a surprise replacement for Aaron Ramsdale's Southampton departure.
Just hours ago, Southampton fans heard a major Aaron Ramsdale departure update with the player pushing for a Premier League suit. Though the keeper isn't closing on a Big Six move, Ramsdale's move will do enough to keep his national dreams alive.
But, while the Saints' Team of the Season nominee is struggling with limited choices, it's completely the opposite for Southampton.
Within days, the Saints have established links with former keeper Angus Gunn, and Will Still's counterpart Yahia Fofana, but haven't proceeded with either.
Now, given Joshua Quarshie's early reinforcement, it's clear that Southampton aren't afraid of bold signings. This suggests that the only thing holding their interest back is the absence of a keeper who ticks every box.
Thankfully, if that's the case, Southampton may halt their transfer search having got their perfect Ramsdale replacement. Interestingly, even after the keeper's departure, the Saints are tipped to have a former Gunner on their books.
The player being talked of in Southampton's interest is Lens keeper, Matt Ryan.
Matt Ryan must be Saints favorite option for Ramsdale's replacement
As per the Daily Echo, Matt Ryan stands as a 'wildcard' reinforcement Will Still might be tempted to make from his previous Lens project. Having had experience with all Top Flights except the Bundesliga, the ex-Arsenal keeper may be a Southampton shortlist favourite for the keeping duties.
Well, except for his 33 years of age, Ryan stands as a must-pursue option for Southampton. But given their current budget and situation, some compromises will be necessary.
Other than that, having been exceptional under Still previously, Ryan can be more than a sporting signing for Southampton, to ease the manager's early days back in England. And his previous experience at Brighton will surely boost the Saints' trust in his signing as a proven option.
Truth be told, Matt Ryan has everything it takes to follow Ramsdale as the next ex-Arsenal leader in Southampton's dressing room. While the keeper's profile will definitely lure Southampton, let's see what the club responds next.