Southampton are edging ever closer to securing youngster Ibrahima Diallo from Stade Brestois 29 (Stade Brest). According to Sky Sports, the deal is believed to be in the range of £12 million, with the 21 year-old already agreeing a four-year contract with the Saints. While the finer details remain to be ironed out, Diallo is expected to be a Southampton player by Sunday. The French Under-21 International’s medical is reportedly scheduled within the next 24 hours.
Diallo Nearing Southampton Move
Added Armour
Diallo’s addition will be a welcome one to the Saints. Currently, Southampton are placed 15th in the Premier League – having lost to Crystal Palace and Tottenham in their opening two matches. Arriving to Stade Brest from Monaco, Diallo quickly became a regular starter in the middle. His ability to stamp out attacks and then sequentially start explosive runs forward made him a real asset in Ligue 1. In total, Diallo has made 53 appearances for Stade Brest over three seasons and has represented France at U18 and U21 level.
After Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg’s departure to Tottenham, Southampton have struggled to fill the gap in the middle of the park. Diallo has all the potential to develop into a similar role to Hojbjerg’s
at St Mary’s
Diallo Not Southampton’s First Choice
Southampton were reportedly looking to sign Toulouse midfielder Ibrahim Sangaré. Unfortunately, however, the 22 year-old Ivory Coast international instead decided to pursue a deal with PSV earlier this week. While Diallo was not Southampton’s no.1 target, the two midfielders share similar strengths within their game.
More players must be signed.
In a press conference on Wednesday, Southampton boss Ralph Hassenhutl expressed his desire to bring in more signings.
“I think there are some other alternatives where we are still keen that they are coming to us. If it’s on loan or permanent. I think we know we need a few ones. One or two minimum, maybe three.”
The summer transfer deadline closes on Monday 5th of October. This Sunday, Southampton host West Brom at Saint Mary’s – hoping to build on their 1-0 victory against Burnley last Saturday at Turf Moor. While Diallo could be a Southampton player by that time, it is unlikely that he will be involved, due to lack of training.
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