Stoke City have been linked with Southampton’s Mohamed Elyounoussi.
According to a report from Sarpsborg Arbeiderblad, Stoke City are keen on taking Southampton’s Mohamed Elyounoussi on loan, but they face competition from clubs abroad.
The Norwegian publication claim Norway international Elyounoussi’s future at Southampton looks bleak and Stoke are looking at a season-long loan option with the view of a potential permanent deal.
Elyounoussi joined the Saints for £16 million last summer, signing a five-year contract at the club.
The winger, however, struggled to get going at St. Mary’s Stadium and the sacking of manager Mark Hughes restricted his first-team opportunities as new boss Ralph Hasenhuttel went for more experience.
Elyounoussi was absent from Southampton’s squad for their latest friendly against Cologne, while the Saints signed another winger in Moussa Djenepo who is likely to push him further out of the first-team picture.
Stoke have made several signings this summer as they look to put their disappointing Championship campaign last season behind them and challenge for promotion this season.
Manager Nathan Jones has been backed at the Bet365 Stadium, yet the Potters have only brought in Jason Cousins and Nick Powell as midfield options and both are more likely to play centrally.
The opening day defeat at home to Queens Park Rangers highlighted their lack of quality out wide, therefore Stoke may see a new winger as a priority ahead of the upcoming transfer deadline.
Elyounoussi would be an exciting option, however his reported £60,000-per-week wages (Spotrac) could pose a major stumbling block in any attempts to bring him in.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
