Southampton's centre-forward transfer target speaks about joining the Premier League

Since the departure of prolific striker Che Adams at the end of the last season on a free transfer, Southampton have been trying to sign a quality striker to bolster their centre forward position. Although Ben Brereton Diaz and Cameron Archer have been added to the squad that already has the likes of Adam Armstrong and Ross Stewart, the Saints have been struggling with their finishing inside the final third. This has resulted in them picking only one point from the first five Premier League matches including four consecutive defeats at the beginning of the season.

Hence, Russell Martin's side need to address their shortcomings in attack and may look to bring in a few reinforcements in the January transfer window. One of the players highly admired by the Southampton board is Corinthians striker Yuri Alberto. Alberto has been in fine form for the Brazilian side and has scored 17 goals in 44 appearances since the start of this year.

Southampton's centre-forward transfer target speaks about joining the Premier League

The Saints were highly interested in securing his services in this summer transfer window, but had their opening bid of a loan move with a buy option for £15 million rejected by Corinthians. Now, Alberto has discussed his transfer situation in the summer, saying,

"There was an offer from England. The board chose to decline.

It’s my dream to play in Europe, to compete in the Premier League, but everything has its time, and those who control this know everything."

- Yuri Alberto

Further, Alberto also hasn't ruled out a future move to the Premier League and can still join Southampton if the Saints's struggles in front of goal continues in the next few games. Meanwhile, Russell Martin's side are preparing to face Bournemouth in the next league fixture aiming to build on their recent momentum with a draw and a win in their previous two matches across all competitions.