Southampton is very much interested in Lazio's young keeper Christos Mandas who can turn another big fee flop.
Admit it or not, but unlike what has been tipped, promotion fears aren't Southampton fans' priority worry. Instead, they are more worried about their long-term keeper search, having failed to finalise a perfect Ramsdale replacement so far.
Now, a couple of brilliant rising stars like European title holder Konstantinos Tzolakis have been brought to the Saints' notice meaning there's no shortage of candidates on the market. Yet, it's disappointing to see Southampton preferring more riskier names to guard their goal.
Intriguingly, Southampton seems very much liking Serie A keeper Christos Mandas, who is yet to emerge as a first-team starter. And that's ignoring that Lazio wants around €20m for approving his permanent sale.
Recently, La Lazio Siamo Noi(via Sport Witness) confirmed the Saints as an active suitor in Mandas' race. However, the club hasn't proceeded with formal agreements as they await Lazio's decision on their backup keeper.
Southampton must avoid signing Christos Mandas for €20m
Honestly, on most occasions, Southampton fans pray for them to complete potential recruits, but this time they would want to opt out of Mandas' signing. And the reason's clear, with Tzolakis easily tipped to be available under €20m, it makes no sense to bring in Mandas for this price.
Truth be told, should Southampton complete this signing, Mandas may replicate Kamaldeen Sulemana's case in goal. And rightly so, given no young player arriving with such a massive transfer fee tag has ever succeeded at St. Mary's.
Otherwise too, even in their worst campaigns, Southampton has had a reputation for having reliable keepers who have saved them quite a shame. While such a situation mustn't arise again, Mandas can't guarantee the safety Ramsdale or former keepers did to the Saints.
Overall, the case is pretty clear, Southampton can bring in Mandas as a marquee signing if they want. But, unless Mandas turns world-class overnight, that €20m price tag will haunt every error he makes.