Southampton are at risk of losing striker Che Adams for free in the summer and now a Premier League side has emerged as favourites to sign him.
Che Adams is out of contract with Southampton at the end of June and will be available for a free transfer if he decides against renewing his current deal.
Having sat down with the Saints media team recently, the Scotland international dropped a subtle hint over his future which could suggest his time at St Mary’s is approaching the end.
Southampton completed the £15 million signing of Adams from Birmingham City in the summer of 2019.
The 27-year-old has since chalked up 43 goals in 180 appearances for the club and while that is hardly a prolific record, he is enjoying his best season on the South Coast with 12 goals in all competitions.
With his contract close to expiring, Adams has attracted several admirers from the Premier League and now one side is leading the race for his signature.
Wolves leading the race for Che Adams
According to The Telegraph, Wolves are leading the race to capture Adams.
Gary O’Neil is looking to bolster his number nine position ahead of the 2024/25 campaign and the Scottish marksman is understood to be firmly on his radar.
Adams has previously attracted interest from Nottingham Forest and Everton, but the report claims that their uncertain top-flight status potentially puts them out of the running.
At this stage, the Wanderers appear to be in pole position to strike a deal for the striker, but with his contract expiring in three months, he is free to speak to foreign clubs over a pre-contract in the summer.
Southampton need to plan for life without Che Adams
With Southampton’s status for next season uncertain, whether that is remaining in the Championship or winning promotion to the Premier League, it appears that Adams’ future is away from St Mary’s.
The striker is yet to open negotiations over a new contract at the club and although he has previously said he wants to get the club back to where it belongs, he’s likely to be playing his football elsewhere.
Previously hailed as “terrific” by Scottish icon Ally McCoist, Adams will be tempted by an offer of Premier League football with Russell Martin needing to plan for the eventuality of his departure.
With Adam Armstrong leading their line, the need to sign a striker isn’t as prominent, however, that position would need servicing if promotion to the top flight is achieved.
Armstrong has struggled to score goals in the Premier League previously, netting a measly four times in 68 outings.
The 27-year-old is one of those strikers who is too good for the Championship, but not prolific enough for the top flight.
With that said, Martin must find a replacement for Adams as his five-year chapter at St Mary’s reaches a close.