Southampton are keen to address the forward positions before the summer transfer window slams shut on August 30.
Southampton discovered a new-found defensive solidity right when it mattered as they dug deep to concede just once across their three play-off matches to secure promotion.
Despite that, the backline was clearly Russell Martin‘s priority to address this summer ahead of the Premier League with five defenders signed.
Now, the focus looks to be shifting to the final third, with an attacking midfielder, winger and striker the priorities.
Ben Brereton Diaz is the latest of eight summer arrivals and will help provide some firepower after six goals in 14 appearances for a really poor Sheffield United in the top flight last season.
However, Martin is in no mood to stop there.
Southampton target move for Gent winger Matias Fernandez-Pardo
Currently, Southampton have just three natural wingers in their squad.
One of these is 18-year-old academy gem Sam Amo-Ameyaw, with the others Samuel Edozie and Kamaldeen Sulemana.
Sulemana has failed to make his mark at the club despite being Southampton’s record signing and was likely to leave this summer prior to sustaining an injury against Oxford United that will see him miss the start of the season.
Given the lack of options on the flanks, it is no surprise that Martin wants to sign at least one winger this summer.
That desire appears to have taken the Saints to Belgium, with the club eyeing a move for 19-year-old Gent winger Matias Fernandez-Pardo.
That is according to journalist Sacha Tavolieiri, who posted on ‘X’: “Southampton and Gent got first contacts for Matias Fernandez-Pardo.
“Talks ongoing with player side. Buffalos [Gent] want Fernandez-Pardo to stay after rejecting €10 million (£8.6m) bid from Lazio but Saints are in love with his profile.
“Fernandez-Pardo keen on the move even if England was not his priority at the basis.”
Who is Southampton target Matias Fernandez-Pardo?
Sceptics amongst the Southampton fanbase may well see Fernandez-Pardo’s age and write off his ability to boost their survival hopes this season.
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However, the 19-year-old is a real talent who is already making a telling contribution in Belgium.
In just 24 senior games for Gent, Fernandez-Pardo has scored nine goals and provided two assists.
Able to play as a left winger or a striker, the attacker loves to cut in onto his stronger right-foot and either get a shot or cross away.
Pacey and skilful, Fernandez-Pardo’s versatility in playing across the forward positions is likely one of the main factors behind Southampton’s interest.
The Saints’ last transfer from Belgium was a disaster, with the £18 million signing of Paul Onuachu on transfer deadline day proving to be an expensive mistake that is still haunting the club.
However, Fernandez-Pardo looks far better suited to make an impact at St Mary’s and Southampton may well test the waters with a bid in the near future.