The Mail+ claim that Southampton have approached Marseille over a deal for Croatia international Duje Caleta-Car as they look to replace Jan Bednarek – a player that has also been linked with a move to Aston Villa this summer.
Caleta-Car, 25, has often been linked with the Premier League in recent seasons. He has spent the last four seasons at Marseille, clocking up 130 appearances in all competitions. He has managed just one sub outing for Marseille this term.
Indeed, available for four of Marseille’s five league games, he has remained an unused substitute in the other three games. With his contract expiring next summer, Southampton have now made an approach to land the Croatian ace.
However, Southampton may find they are not alone in pursuit of Caleta-Car. Indeed, Aston Villa have also been linked in this window as they continue their search to sign another central defender. They still need to replace Diego Carlos.
Southampton have approached Marseille for Caleta-Car
He would be an excellent addition. Southampton need a central defender with Jan Bednarek expected to complete a move to West Ham. So, the Saints need to bring in a centre-back to replace the Poland international on Thursday.
Indeed, Marseille might be willing to let him go on the cheap. His contract situation means Marseille might even be trying to offload him before the end of the window. A move to the Premier League might finally come about for him.
Still young at 25, but experienced too. He has clocked up 297 appearances in all competitions at club level, while also earning 23 caps for Croatia. Southampton are expected to be busy on deadline day, Ainsley Maitland-Niles joining.
But if Bednarek goes, Southampton will need a defender and Caleta-Car is a decent signing. Can they beat the likes of Aston Villa to a move? It remains to be seen, but the Saints are certainly pushing for a move.
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