Leeds United emerge as surprise favourites to sign Southampton's keeping target Yahia Fofana.
Not to sound harsh, but Southampton has endured one of the worst starts in this summer transfer window. And surprisingly, while their efforts have by far failed to convince the fans positively, fortune hasn't been on their side either.
Yesterday, Southampton fans' dreams of forward Lawrence Shankland were affected by Championship side West Brom's intervention. And today, they saw themselves compromised by Lens over full-back Max Johnston.
Sadly, this disappointing trend has just been extended for Southampton even more now.
This time, it's promotion winners Leeds United snatching away keeper Yahia Fofana from Southampton's radar. Though initially, the player's transfer race saw the Saints competing with Newcastle, the newcomers have emerged as a surprise destination for the Angers keeper.
As per Africafoot(via MOT Leeds News), Leeds boss Farke is keen to bring in Yahia Fofana to replace error-prone Illan Meslier ahead of the next Top Flight campaign.
Fofana's transfer defeat by Leeds would READ MOREsting Southampton
Honestly, while Southampton was already in danger by Newcastle's presence in Fofana's race, Leeds' entry may have just finished their hopes. After all, with some Premier League clubs already pushing for him, it's natural for the 24-year-old, nearing his prime, to overwrite Championship choices like that of the Saints.
Well, truth be told, Saints fans might have given up long before on Fofana's signing, but losing his race to Leeds would be the last thing they wanted. Especially for how things have fared between the two sides in recent months.
While it began with Cameron Archer's missed transfer, things currently stand, where any exchange or transfer between the two feels difficult. Needless to say, Southampton dropping to the Championship and Leeds going through to the Premier League have just widened the differences.
But, at least for now, Leeds is tipped to outplay Southampton again with a potential Yahia Fofana deal. Can the Saints fight back next season? Let's see.