One Southampton transfer ordeal is still attracting disdain from an opposition club.
Southampton are looking to get their first win on the board as they face off with Manchester United at home.
They will be hoping to put an end to what has been a fairly lacklustre start to the season, with the Saints tallying just one goal in their opening three games so far this season, courtesy of Yuki Sugawara.
Goals have been difficult to come by for Russell Martin’s side, and they have also been sloppy at the back, with goals often coming courtesy of mistakes during Southampton’s build-up play.
New goalkeeper signing Aaron Ramsdale was in-between the sticks for the defeat against Brentford, where he conceded three goals.
Despite a difficult debut for the former England international, there is certainly still optimism over his arrival, however it could have worked out differently if Justin Bijlow passed his medical at Southampton, and the events surrounding the Dutch goalkeeper have now been slammed.
- READ MORE: Southampton predicted XI, team and injury news as Russell Martin changes formation vs Man Utd
Southampton slammed for treatment of Justin Bijlow
The Saints were close to confirming the signing of Bijlow from Dutch side Feyenoord, however difficulties in the medical meant that the side on the south coast acted quickly to attain the services of Arsenal goalkeeper for £25million on Deadline Day.
Southampton have already been accused of Ramsdale’s signing being ‘very coincidental’ by Feyenoord director Dennis te Kloese, and the Saints have now been told that they mismanaged the situation by Feyenoord manager Brian Priske.
Per 1908NL, Priske said: “I think he was not treated well by Southampton in that process. I don’t think it’s very correct, what happened there.”
Southampton must not let Justin Bijlow saga affect their season
It is clear that the ordeal surrounding Bijlow’s transfer breaking down at the pivotal moment on Deadline Day was far from ideal for all parties involved, especially the player.
However, Southampton acted quickly and rightfully utilised their plan B of bringing in Ramsdale from Arsenal.
There is certainly plenty of noise coming from the Dutch end in regards to how Southampton acted on Deadline Day regarding the two goalkeepers, and it is safe to say that this potentially has soured relations between the two clubs, but this must not get into the dressing room and cause a disruption.
It could easily have an effect on their business in the future, especially if they are looking towards Dutch players, however Southampton in this case must ensure that it does now filter through into their players.