An extremely popular club amongst the English tabloids, Southampton have so far been linked to a number of players this transfer window. However, despite all of the rumours and reports, the Saints have yet to make a move. That said, a new rumour from the Football Insider does carry with it some weight. According to a report from Pete O’Rourke, Southampton have now set their sights on signing Fulham left-back Joe Bryan.
Report: Southampton Target Fulham Left Back Joe Bryan
Ralph Hasenhuttl Keen on Improving Strength at Full-back
Currently sporting just three senior side fullbacks, Southampton have struggled all season with depth at the position. This struggle has been especially prevalent in the left-back position. Outside of Ryan Bertrand, Southampton’s only other true left-back is current youth academy star Jake Vokins. In fact, this season Southampton has already been forced to play both Kevin Danso and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg at the position.
While Vokins did perform spectacularly in Southampton’s most recent FA Cup win, there are doubts about his first-team readiness. Because of this, it is no wonder why Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl has targeted the fullback position in this transfer window. In fact, in recent days the rumour mill has only seemingly become more active.
Linked to Tottenham Hotspur prospect Kyle Walker-Peters, all signs are pointing towards the Saints improving at the fullback position. In recent days, all eyes on the South Coast have now turned towards the London-based Joe Bryan. The 26-year-old left-back currently plays for Fulham and has since become a wanted man this month.
Interest Extremely High in Joe Bryan
Outside of the rumoured interest from Southampton, the Englishman has also attracted interest from both Watford and Serie A side Atalanta. The 26-year-old has become an extremely popular figure in recent weeks thanks to his ability as well as his strong injury history.
Joining Fulham from Bristol City last season, Joe Bryan made 28 English Premier League appearances for the Cottagers. Missing just five matches through injury, Joe Bryan also made 27 starts for the London-based club last season. Now six months into his second season with the side, Bryan has made an additional 26 appearances in the EFL Championship.
Showing incredible consistency, Bryan has also shown the ability to play multiple different positions. In fact, over the course of his career, Joe Bryan has made 109 appearances as a midfield player. An amazing number considering the Englishman has only made 152 appearances at his primary left-back position.
Combining all of this together along with Leicester City’s interest in Ryan Bertrand and the £7-million Englishman is a player Southampton must land.
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