Southampton have been too sensitive to having competition for their goalkeepers recently. With Daniel Peretz set to join, that approach could change. If the Saints want to improve defensively, and all signs suggest they do, this is the right move. Supporters have been waiting for this signing for some time, though some would prefer a more experienced, higher-quality signing.
Gavin Bazunu remains a decent young keeper, but his numbers this season are worrying. He has had trouble with shot-stopping and crosses, although his recent form has improved. Tonda Eckert has backed him in public, as most coaches would, but that support should not mean accepting lower standards.
Peretz brings something Bazunu has missed this season: real competition. At 25, the Israeli international is not here just to fill a spot.
His comments in December showed he expects and wants to play, and he gets frustrated when he does not. That attitude is essential. A goalkeeper who is happy to sit on the bench would not help the team.
A goalkeeper whose record deserves respect
Peretz’s record also deserves respect. Playing seven times for Bayern Munich, even as a backup, is impressive. His UEFA experience with Maccabi Tel Aviv shows he can handle responsibility. Saving two Erling Haaland penalties, even in a heavy defeat, proves he does not shy away from big moments.
For Bazunu, this is a chance to step up, not something to fear. Goalkeepers often improve when they have real competition.
Only under Will Still did Alex McCarthy offer a genuine threat to Bazunu's position. Too frequently this season, Bazunu has seemed sure of his spot, no matter how he has played. That does not help anyone.
Importantly, this is only a loan. There is no final decision or closed door for Bazunu. Eckert is not giving up on Bazunu; he is pushing him to improve.
It is ironic that, just as there is talk of signing a new goalkeeper, Bazunu has had two of his best games this season. His saves at Birmingham and at home to Millwall were exceptional, the difference between losing and coming away with a point in each match.
The club deserves credit for acting decisively
Saints did not fix this problem in the summer, but the club deserves a little credit for seeing the need and acting quickly in January.
This move is not a complete solution, but it is a clear step forward. Clean sheets do not come from hope or patience alone. They come from hard work and from players knowing they have to earn their place every week.
If Peretz helps Bazunu get better, Southampton benefits. If Peretz earns the starting spot, Southampton still benefits. No matter what happens, the real winner is Southampton, a club that is clearly focused on securing promotion.
Competition for the goalkeeper spot is long overdue, and for a Head Coach obsessed with clean sheets, this move makes complete sense.