Southampton are said to be ready to cover a bulk of Forster’s wages to sent him on loan, which should alert the likes of Leeds United, Aston Villa and Birmingham City.
Southampton are willing to loan out Fraser Forster and will fund the bulk of his £65,000-a-week wages, according to the Sun (July 12, page 57).
If true, that could offer a lifeline to clubs outside of England’s Premier League who are looking to strengthen their options in goal.
And the following three may wish to take note…
Leeds United
Leeds are desperate for a new number one after clearing the decks this summer, leaving the inexperienced Bailey Peacock-Farrell as their only senior option in goal. However, a move for David Stockdale – a lifelong Leeds fan – is said to have stalled over Birmingham’s demands. Hexham-born Forster may fancy a return north if he is to leave Southampton this summer.
Aston Villa
Villa’s precarious financial state left them forced to watch through their fingers as last season’s first choice, Sam Johnstone, signed for West Bromwich Albion instead, via Manchester United. But the Villans could soon have some room for manoeuvre after manager Steve Bruce admitted sales of their own players are inevitable, and Forster may appeal depending on how generous Southampton are feeling.
Birmingham City
Another Championship club with a firm eye on Financial Fair Play, Birmingham are said to want several players off the wage bill this summer, including senior goalkeepers Stockdale and Tomasz Kuszczak. And it is possible a move for Forster could work out cheaper than keeping the pair on board. The relationship between Southampton and their former player Garry Monk, the Birmingham manager, may work in the Blues’ favour.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
