With Stoke City’s relegation, Shaqiri will be leaving the club this summer. Would a move to Southampton appeal to partner up with former boss Mark Hughes?
Stoke City will be plying their trade in the Championship next season, with a host of their star names likely to be poached by Premier League clubs looking to improve their own squads ahead of the new campaign.
One of those stars who is certain to leave the club is 26-year-old Xherdan Shaqiri, who has previously expressed his frustrations, meaning relegation will be the final straw for Shaqiri who is looking to have a successful summer with Switzerland at the World Cup in Russia.
His eight goals and seven assists failed to keep Stoke in the Premier League but did continue to show that Shaqiri is worthy of playing in England’s top league.
With Southampton securing their place in the Premier League under Mark Hughes’ leadership, if the Saints decide to keep him at the helm going into next season, they could attempt to steal some of Stoke’s stars, including Shaqiri, to strengthen their squad.
Southampton struggled with their creativity last season, a quality Shaqiri has in abundance. His direct approach and natural skill would provide the south coast club with more excitement and energy as they look to better their 17th place finish next year.
Relegation for Stoke would also mean their asking price for their talisman would be lowered, meaning that Southampton should not struggle financially with any potential deal.
We also already know that red and white stripes suit Shaqiri down to the ground.
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