Southampton are interested in the signing of Zak Vyner of Bristol City as he approaches the last year of his contract.
He was offered a new deal at Ashton Gate earlier this year but is still yet to sign an extension.
The 26-year-old has attracted interest from various clubs but why are the Saints looking to sign him?
Who is Zak Vyner?
A product of the Bristol City academy, Vyner has been there since 2004, spending several years out on loan.
Spells with Accrington Stanley, Plymouth Argle, Rotherham United and most recently Aberdeen, now sees the defender linked with a permanent move away.
He has spent the last three years as a regular for the Robins under Nigel Pearson. Last season he earned players player of the year for his performances.
He loves a tackle and is able to play out from the back.
His Championship experience, combined with what is likely to be a low fee, this could be a very astute signing by the Saints.
What has Nigel Pearson said about Zak Vyner?
When asked by Bristol Live, Pearson wasn’t for giving up any details about the matter.
He did say: “We’ve talked about it but there’s nothing further to add at the moment.
“When you lose your exciting prospects, all that work that has gone into developing the players, it’s something we need to protect our assets.”
It is clear that Pearson isn’t best pleased about the potential departure of Vyner but with his performances getting better, bigger teams are sniffing around.
With his performances so far this season adding to the positive narrative, the offer tabled by the Robins gets less attractive.
With Armel Bella-Kotchap potentially departing, cover in the centre back area could be beneficial to Martin’s squad.
Zach Awe has already joined the club as a defensive option. Vyner would represent a postive signing both in quality and price.