Southampton could do with a striker this month – there’s no two ways about it.
As reported by The Athletic in December, Damion Downs was not going to be allowed to leave, even on loan, unless Southampton could find a replacement.
Downs has gone on loan since, which sets the Saints up well to bring in a centre-forward that is better-suited to the Championship than the American, who failed to score in his eleven Saints appearances.
Tonda Eckert’s side is in desperate need of a centre forward with goal-scoring nous and experience playing in England, and available for a cheap transfer – here are three players who could bring that to St Mary’s.
As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea and David Datro Fofana are working on a permanent exit this window. Celtic, Royal Antwerp and Derby County have all expressed interest over potential deal.
The 23-year-old is a natural goalscorer, and is in need of a long-term move to gain some consistent form. The talent is no doubt there – could he be Southampton’s next signing?
Having already played nine games out on loan for Sport Republic-owned club Göztepe, scoring twice in three starts last season, this could be a smart signing for Southampton, who don’t want to overspend this month.
Sunderland’s third-choice striker has had limited minutes in the Premier League, and at 20 years of age, needs consistent game time to improve.
A versatile player, capable of playing the athletic role that Southampton want utilised up front in their direct attacking system, Mayenda scored 10 goals and assisted 5 in 40 games for the Black Cats last season.
A loan-in could be a clever coup by Southampton Sporting Director Johannes Spors, and a beneficial move for all parties.
Callum Wilson is now a free agent after leaving West Ham United – and undoubtedly a prolific goalscorer.
Despite playing just 810 minutes in the Premier League this season, Wilson has four goals and one assist. The 33-year-old has scored 145 goals in his career and could be a much-needed leader at Southampton.
The only issue for Wilson is his injury record. Can the Saints afford to cover his wages as well as Ross Stewart’s, in the event that both are out?
While the Saints have scored the joint-fourth-most goals in the Championship this season [38], they are in desperate need of somebody to hold up play.
Could one of these strikers be that?
