The Swansea City man would be a superb signing for Southampton.
The Saints could be on the verge on losing Jay Rodriguez, with the Baggies close to securing the signing of the 27-year-old for £14 million, according to the Mirror.
If, or more likely when, the transfer goes through, Southampton will obviously have to look for a striker with proven pedigree to come in and fill the void left behind by Rodriguez.
With this mind, the south coast outfit should consider a move for Swans hitman Fernando Llorente, who enjoyed a superb campaign with the Welsh outfit last season.
The 32-year-old Spaniard scored 15 goals in 33 league outings – an impressive tally considering his side barely avoided relegation.
Swansea City’s Fernando Llorente celebrates
Standing at 6ft 4in, the former Juventus and Athletic Bilbao man possesses an imposing physique, and is incredibly strong in the air. This would give the Saints the opportunity of playing with a more direct style, should they need to revert to a plan B.
Llorente could strike up a superb partnership with Manolo Gabbiadini, with the Italian more renowned for his technical ability, and the pair’s attributes could really compliment each other well.
It could be argued that the Swansea man is past his prime, but he has kept himself in such fine shape that he easily has another two years remaining of playing at the very highest level.
His cultured touch combined with his nouse and know-how in and around the box could be a huge asset to Southampton this season, after their impotent displays in front of goal caused much frustration amongst the St Mary’s faithful last term.
He has just one year remaining on his current deal at the Liberty Stadium, so he shouldn’t prove to be too costly, should Mauricio Pellegrino attempt to bring him to the south coast.
And if Llorente does make the move south from Swansea, he could turn out to be a real coup for the Saints.
Swansea’s Fernando Llorente
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