Southampton are still very much a player in the transfer market as Russell Martin eyes further signings ahead of tonight’s 11pm deadline.
Southampton are yet to earn a point – or even score a goal – since their Premier League return with 1-0 defeats to both Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest.
Russell Martin has been backed by owners Sport Republic with 11 signings and the expected imminent arrival of Aaron Ramsdale for an initial £18 million only serves as further proof of this.
This goalkeeper signing resolves one of supporters’ biggest concerns for the season, but there is still a shortage of quality attacking options available to Martin and fans hope Southampton will address this on Deadline Day.
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Russell Martin hopes for Southampton signings on Deadline Day
With all the chaos associated with the approaching transfer deadline, it is easy to forget that Southampton face Brentford on Saturday in their final Premier League game before the first international break of the season.
Ahead of the trip to West London, Martin faced the media in Southampton’s press-conference where he was asked whether the club are expecting more signings.
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Martin’s response will please fans who feel there is still work to be done, as he said: “I hope so, rather than expect to.
“There may be one or two more, but it will also depend on one or two people leaving the building I think.
“Some players will want to get more playing time, some players aren’t featured in the plans too much. Everyone is clear on their situations.
“So hopefully one or two are coming in, but it’s important not to get too carried away especially on a day like today.”
What deals could Southampton complete on Deadline Day?
Martin’s response suggest that Southampton should have a busy final day of the transfer window.
Ramsdale’s arrival looks to be secured but the signing is yet to be officially announced and he will be unable to play against Brentford unless the transfer is registered prior to midday.
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Southampton are looking to secure a loan move for West Ham attacker Maxwel Cornet but face competition from Crystal Palace, whilst a striker remains on the agenda.
This could perhaps be Lyon centre-forward Gift Orban in a deal that would also likely be a loan, at least initially.
Martin touched on outgoings and any one of Paul Onuachu, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Armel Bella-Kotchap or Ryan Manning could depart.
Trabzonspor want Onuachu to return after a successful loan spell last season but have a little more time to negotiate a deal as the transfer window does not close until September 2nd in Turkey.
Sulemana and Bella-Kotchap will both be sold if a suitable offer is received, whilst Manning is yet to feature this season and could be moved on.