Southampton have highlighted a utility player with european and international experience.
The Saints are looking to further bolster their ranks this summer as they await their first Premier League clash.
Following up their promotion from the Championship will be a tall order this season, particularly surrounding various financial issues at the club as they continue the recovery from the 2022/23 relegation, however they are still looking around at both the domestic and European markets for players.
Southampton remain light up top, despite the arrival of Ben Brereton Diaz from Villarreal, as Ross Stewart seemingly picked up another injury this pre-season.
Russell Martin could also do with improving his options out wide, both offensively and defensively this summer, which he has clearly noticed with his most recent transfer target this summer, however they will have to fend off interest from other Premier League sides for the European star.
Southampton interested in Fenerbahce and Turkey star Ferdi Kadioglu
Southampton are reportedly set to battle it out with fellow Premier League sides Nottingham Forest and Brighton for Fenerbahce and Turkey star Ferdi Kadioglu, per Sabah Spor.
The 24-year-old reportedly ‘has the goal of continuing his career in England, [and] will clarify his attitude after his meeting with the [Fenerbahce] management’, which could play in Southampton’s favour in the player wanting a move away from the Super Lig side despite Fenerbahce being willing to offer him a new five-year deal.
There have already been reported bids of €25m (£21m) for the Turkish international, however Fenerbahce are holding out for €35m (£30m) for Kadioglu.
Ferdi Kadioglu’s versatility could be massive for Southampton
Kadioglu will provide necessary experience to the Southampton ranks, having tallied 20 appearances for Turkey at just the age-of-24, including playing every single minute at Euro 2024, where his side made it all the way to the quarter-finals.
Alongside this, there is no exaggeration when it’s suggested that Kadioglu can play absolutely anywhere.
The 2023/24 season saw the Turkish international utilised first and foremost at left-back, whilst also being called upon to play left-wing. However, previous seasons have seen him play on the right, both defensively and offensively, and even played in attacking-midfield.
In a season that’ll be incredibly physically demanding for Martin’s side, who will likely be up against the cosh on several occasions this season, and Kadioglu is perfect to have in-and-around the squad if Southampton are significantly hit by injuries to key players.
On top of all this, he is proven at European level, something that could see his value doubled in a year if he is able to kick on in the Premier League.