Three Hull City players Marco Silva could target if appointed by Southampton

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The Hull City boss is being tipped to replace Claude Puel at Southampton.

The Independent reports that Marco Silva is one of two Portuguese coaches being considered as potential replacements for Claude Puel at Southampton.

If Silva, who is said to have a break clause in the 18-month contract he signed in January, was to take the Saints’ reins, it would likely mean that the Tigers have failed in their survival quest – and could leave them vulnerable to offers for key players.

But which ones could the 39-year-old move for if he ends up at St Mary’s?

Andrea Ranocchia

Linked with a move to St Mary’s in January [MediaSet], Southampton’s loss has been very much Hull’s gain, with the Italian’s displays – which include a shut-out on the south coast last month – helping to give the Tigers a fighting chance of survival this season. Meanwhile, the Saints’ alternative Martin Caceres has yet to make a first team appearance. With his future at Inter Milan looking bleak, the chances of Ranocchia following Silva are high.

Andrew Robertson

Ryan Bertrand continues to be linked with a move away from St Mary’s with Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea said keen on the England international. With a significant transfer fee expected, Saints could add Robertson – who is four years younger than Bertrand – and still turn a profit.

Alfred N’Diaye

Southampton have looked a little lightweight at times following Victor Wanyama’s transfer to to Tottenham Hotspur last summer and six-foot-one N’Diaye would certainly improve them in that regard. Like Ranocchia, N’Diaye is also on loan from a reputable European side – in this case Villarreal – with whom he appears surplus to requirements.