Southampton made a late swoop for an attacker on Deadline Day that Russell Martin is a fan of.
The Saints managed three Deadline Day signings in order to get their side fully prepared for the 2024/25 Premier League season.
In-between the sticks was a notable position in desperate need for improvement following the lack of guarantee that Alex McCarthy was able to consistently perform at Premier League level, which as a result saw the blockbuster signing of Arsenal and England international goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale in a £25million deal.
The attacking permanent signing of Ryan Fraser and a loan move for Maxwel Cornet were also made late on for Russell Martin’s side, with the former Scottish international returning to the club after a successful spell with Southampton last season.
After managing to get both deals over the line in the final hours of the transfer window, there is one of the attackers that Martin is particularly excited about having as an option for the season, one which has been described as a ‘dynamic player’.
Russell Martin on what Maxwel Cornet will offer Southampton
With the transfer window now closed, Martin has had time to reflect on his signings, one of which being the late addition of Cornet on loan from West Ham United.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Martin said: “Maxwel is a very dynamic player and he gives us another exciting dimension to the group.
“He’s someone who can be a real threat to the opposition on the pitch and I’m delighted the ownership group and board have been able to get another attacking option in for us.
“He’s really excited to be coming here and I think it’s a move that can bring out the best in him and work really well for both him and us.”
Maxwel Cornet will offer an extra dimension to Southampton’s play
The signing of Cornet truly is an exciting one for Saints fans for many reasons, from his fruitful Premier League experience with the likes of West Ham United and Burnley, to his raw talent, skill and trickery on the ball.
Whilst he may not have been handed the necessary game time during his time with the Hammers, he was certainly a hit at Burnley before they suffered relegation to the second tier.
It will be likely that any likelihood of Southampton fans seeing the best of the Ivorian winger will have to come from Cornet first re-finding his confidence that he showed at Burnley and getting a run of games.
The 27-year-old will have plenty to prove during his stint with the Saints and if Martin continues to show this confidence in the winger, there is every chance that he can recapture his form seen at Lyon and Burnley.