Yan Valery was impressive in Southampton’s Premier League defeat to Cardiff City, suggesting they do not need to hand KRC Genk a big fee.
Southampton were left disappointed by Saturday’s 2-1 home defeat to Cardiff City, Kenneth Zohore’s stoppage time strike sending the Saints tumbling into the relegation zone.
But the display of young Yan Valery at right-back gave the home fans something to feel positive about.
At the age of just 19, the Frenchman has established himself as Southampton’s first choice since Ralph Hasenhuttl took over; his form even allowing Cedric Soares to leave on loan for Inter Milan.
Valery has been quietly impressive over the last month or so, improving week by week and looking increasingly at home in the starting XI. He was one of Southampton’s better players against Cardiff and would have scored a genuine Goal of the Season contender if it wasn’t for the trailing leg of Bluebirds goalkeeper Neil Etheridge.
In fact, Valery has between now and May to prove that the Saints don’t need to spend big on a new right-back, and he has certainly started well.
The Mail claimed in January that Southampton saw a £10.5 million bid rejected by KRC Genk for the flying Belgian Joakim Maehle, who has produced seven assists this season for the runaway Jupiler League leaders.
They are expected to renew their interest in the summer. But, if Valery continues to improve, why would Southampton need another young right-back?
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