Bundesliga outfit Hannover 96 are interested in three English-based defenders from West Ham, Southampton and Sunderland.
Hannover 96 enjoyed an impressive return to the Bundesliga last season. Under the former Schalke boss Andre Breitenreiter, Die Roten finished six points above the relegation play-off spot – though they face a major challenge replicating that success after losing influential defender Salif Sane to Schalke.
The Senegal international was a rock at the back in 2017/18 and his departure leaves a major void in the side. One Hannover appear to be turning to England to fill.
According to Kicker, the Saxony-based club have identified three centre-backs based in England as potential Sane replacements – Southampton’s Jan Bednarek, Sunderland’s Papy Djilobodji and West Ham youngster Reece Oxford.
Poland international Bednarek joined The Saints last summer from Lech Poznan for £5.7 million. He enjoyed an impressive end to his debut Premier League season and it seems unlikely that he would be sold.
Djilobodji and Oxford, however, seem like more realistic options.
Sunderland are desperate to sell the former, who is earning big money and not part of Jack Ross’ plans. Oxford, meanwhile, spent time on loan at Borussia Monchengladbach last season and Sky Sports have claimed that The Hammers would be willing to sell.
Though Oxford’s £10 million price-tag could be out of Hannover’s reach.
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