Southampton are stepping up their interest level in Sturm Graz and Scotland fullback Max Johnston as the replacement for the departing Kyle Walker-Peters. This is according to a report by Pete O’Rourke.
Johnston, 21, was part of the Sturm Graz side who managed to seal the Austrian Bundesliga Title for their second consecutive campaign. The Scottish star will be on the radar for The Saints, as they search the market for a successor to Kyle Walker-Peters, who departs Saint Mary’s upon the expiration of his contract on the South Coast this summer.
Johnston’s Potential Price
Johnston could be available at a surprisingly low price if Southampton were to make an approach for the Sturm Graz fullback, as the Austrian Champions may let their Scottish International return to the U.K. for around £2.1 million.
What Does He Offer To Southampton?
The exciting Scotland-Capped defender has been a vital part of Sturm Graz’s recent success, featuring in both the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League, facing off against teams such as Borussia Dortmund and Sporting CP. Johnston has also played his role in back-to-back league titles with Sturm Graz, contributing both ahead of goal and defensively.
Johnston offers the younger pedigree that Will Still is after in the search for Walker-Peters’ replacement, bringing explosivity and plenty of attacking threat to Southampton’s right hand side. He also brings qualities in defence, having impressive statistics in the amount of challenges won, which comes in at nearly 70% through FotMob, alongside a fantastic arial ability, winning a credible number of battles in the air.
At only 21-years-old, too, Johnston still has plenty of potential to fulfil, and joining up with Will Still’s Saints may just unleash the best out of the Scotland International, as Southampton prepare themselves for an attempt at returning to the Premier League.
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