Southampton will need reinforcements in attacking areas after losing one of their most productive forwards.
Southampton must ensure they replace Sadio Mane with a quality addition
Southampton fans will be hoping that the money the club received from the sale of Sadio Mane will be used for re-investment in their squad.
A long line of Saints players have left for pastures new over the last few seasons, but they have always found the uncanny knack of finding able bodied replacements.
Mane’s absence has left a huge void at St Mary’s, however, after he contributed 11 goals and six assists to the Saints attack last term.
Southampton should move for Crystal Palace’s Yannick Bolasie
A fantastic option for the south coast outfit would be Crystal Palace winger Yannick Bolasie. The Eagles have today confirmed the signing of Andros Townsend, and Southampton should test their resolve with a bid for the Congolese international.
The 27-year old has pace in abundance, and his direct style of play would suit the Saints perfectly. They like to play with a target man up front, whether that be Shane Long or Graziano Pelle, and Bolasie’s ability to beat defenders combined with his expert delivery would help bring out the best in the Saints’ strikers.
Bolasie’s pace would suit Southampton’s direct style
Whether or not Palace would actually want to sell Bolasie is another matter, but Southampton must ensure they move quickly to find someone who can replicate the offensive output they have lost with Mane’s sale to Liverpool.
Earlier in the season, Palace manger Alan Pardew value valued Blouse at £20 million, as reported by The Times. After receiving £34 million from the sale of Mane, Southampton could comfortably meet that price, and it should be a transfer they seriously consider if they are to compete in the top half of the Premier League again next season.
Bolasie could face competition for his place from new arrival Andros Townsend
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