Southampton have found their striker signing in Manchester City’s Divin Mubama.
The 21-year-old is set to sign for the Saints in a loan deal for the duration of the 2026/27 season, to replace Ross Stewart, who signed for Swansea as a free agent.
Following reports that a deal has been agreed, Mubama could link up with the Southampton squad before the first Championship game of the season against Watford at Vicarage Road.
The young England striker, who has 11 goals at youth level for the Three Lions, is clearly a hot prospect. Manchester City poached him from West Ham United as a 19-year-old in 2024.
Former City boss Pep Guardiola’s verdict is certainly something to take note of when assessing how good the signing of Divin Mubama could be for Southampton.
Pep’s verdict telling
Just over six months into his stay at the Cityzens, Pep Guardiola lauded the incoming Saints striker for his movement and ability as a goalscorer.
“His movements are unbelievable! The way he moves in right tempo, the way he presses,” Pep raved.
“The movement for the first goal is perfectly as a striker, it looks easy but how he made the one counter movement against the defender… It’s really, really good! I’m really pleased for many positive things!”
It’s a telling verdict, and one that will excite Saints fans, hearing one of football’s greatest celebrate their new signing, who is set to become Southampton’s first left-footed striker since cult hero Manolo Gabbiadini.
An astute signing
Southampton aren’t getting the complete package in signing Divin Mubama. The 21-year-old has Premier League qualities as well as other areas that can be improved, naturally for a player of his age.
As Pep Guardiola mentioned, Mubama’s excellent movement is one of his brilliant attributes. His finishing off his left foot is another good quality.
Mubama’s stint at Stoke City last campaign wasn’t perfect, but five Championship goals in little scope for opportunity over 26 matches showed promise.
Saints fans may remember Mubama most from being sent off after being handed a second yellow for simulation last season as the Potters came and won 2-1 at St Mary’s.
Often first loans are very poor, but Southampton bringing in Divin Mubama is an astute signing.
A good Championship player only set to improve, the Saints are minimising costs rather than splashing out on a new striker.
It’s a deal that could look brilliantly executed in hindsight in a year’s time.
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