Southampton’s apparent pursuit of a new midfielder has reportedly hit a potential problem.
According to a report from Soccernews.nl, Southampton’s proposed move for Feyenoord midfielder Tonny Vilhena has hit a stumbling block.
The Daily Mail reported at the weekend that Ronald Koeman wanted to strengthen his side with the £5million addition of the 20-year-old.
But the latest report from Soccernews claims Feyenoord coach Fred Rutten will only sanction the move to St Mary’s if a replacement is signed.
FC Groningen player Tjaronn Chery is reportedly Rutten’s first choice but the player is unable to move, leaving Southampton’s alleged pursuit of Vilhena at something of an impasse.
Vilhena has played 96 games for Feyenoord, scoring 10 goals and providing 10 assists in that time.
He has been capped 16 times by the Netherlands under-21 side but is yet to play for the senior team.
Koeman has proved himself a wonderful operator in the transfer market having seen his previous signings become huge successes at St Mary’s. But with Southampton on the verge of a remarkable top-four finish, he will not want to let that slip and any canny additions he can make this month could ultimately be the difference.
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