Southampton are locked in a battle for promotion to the Premier League right now.
The Saints currently sit 4th in the Championship six points adrift of the top two spots, with a game in hand.
That gap could grow this weekend, with Russell Martin‘s side not in action. That though, will give them the opportunity to put the pressure on with extra games to come after the March international break.
As a result, Southampton will have to have plans in place, for if they do secure return to the Premier League this season.
Not only does that relate to strengthening their squad, but also moving players on from St Mary’s who may struggle to make an impact in the top-flight of English football.
So with that in mind, we’ve taken a look at three players who Southampton may want to consider letting go of in the summer if they do win promotion, right here.
James Bree has had a frustrating season
Having joined the Saints in January last year, Bree struggled for opportunities in the Premier League after his move to St Mary’s.
He made just a handful of appearances for the club last season, and has again struggled for opportunities during the current campaign. Admittedly, the right-back has not been helped by the injuries he has struggled with throughout the campaign.
But with Kyle Walker-Peters well established as Southampton’s first choice in that position, it could be hard for Bree to build any sort of momentum in that position. Indeed, the fact centre back Taylor Harwood-Bellis has been used ahead of him in the absence of Walker-Peters recently, does feel telling. With that in mind, it may make sense to move him on in the summer in the event of promotion, to bring in a more established top-flight option who can compete for a place in the XI.
Sekou Mara has struggled to make an impact
Back in the summer of 2022, Southampton completed the signing of Mara from Bordeaux. However, the striker has found goals hard to come by for the Saints.
The 21-year-old has found the net just eight times in 58 appearances in all competitions for the club. In fairness, Martin himself is a fan of Mara, previously describing him as a ‘great guy’.
However, that lack of goals is a concern for a player operating as a striker. They will need a better record than this from their attacking options if they are to have a chance of staying up. So with Mara having been linked with other clubs this season, it could make sense to sacntion that move. Doing so, if in a loan deal, could give him the chance to find some form, and would free up space in the squad for some more potent attacking additions.
Paul Onuachu could be keen to leave Southampton
Another player signed in January 2023, striker Paul Onuachu struggled to make an impact as the Saints slipped to relegation in the second half of last season.
As a result, he was then loaned out to Turkish side Trabzonspor in the summer. He has impressed during his time there. That has led to claims that Trabzonspor want to hold talks about an extended deal, with Onuachu himself said to be keen on such a deal.
Given how he was unable to make a difference for Southampton last season, it could make sense for them to try and cash in on him while they have this opportunity. Indeed, if they do not, the fact he seemingly does not want to be at St Mary’s, means keeping him may not help the mood behind the scenes at the club.