Southampton are now looking to bring in Strasbourg’s Ligue 1 centre-back Alexander Djiku as Loic Bade closes in on Premier League rivals Nottingham Forest, as reported by RMC Sport.
Despite Armel Bella-Kotchap’s outstanding start to life at St Mary’s, defensive reinforcements remain a necessity for Ralph Hasenhuttl on deadline day. Jan Bednarek’s impending departure – whether to Aston Villa or West Ham United – means a replacement is needed.
The Saints had looked to bring in Rennes benchwarmer Loic Bade. The so-called ‘new Raphael Varane’ is set to join big-spending Nottingham Forest instead, however. And, according to reports in France, Southampton are now switching their sights to another Ligue 1 stopper.
Southampton turn to Alexander Djiku as Jan Bednarek replacement
Ghana international Djiku was a major reason why Strasbourg spent much of last term flirting with European qualification.
“He is really at his peak this season,” said former Alsace coach Thierry Laurey of a man in the form of his life.
28-year-old Djiku, labelled an ‘outstanding’ talent by Ghana boss Charles Akonnor, has less than 12 months remaining on his Strasbourg contract. Southampton, then, will be hoping that they can force the Les Bleu et Blanc into a deadline-day sale; perhaps on a cut-price fee. Sevilla, after losing both Jules Kounde and Diego Carlos, are also in contention.
Bella-Kotchap, a £9 million signing from VFL Bochum, stood out once again during Tuesday’s shock 2-1 win over Chelsea. He is now firmly established as Mohammed Salisu’s first-choice centre-back partner.
As such, Bednarek has not played a minute across any of Southampton’s last three Premier League games. The Pole could replace the injured Diego Carlos at Aston Villa today.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
