Southampton could lose out on on a possible transfer target as the chase for David Okereke hots up, according to a report in Corriere Dello Sport.
The Sun are reporting that Ralph Hasenthuttl has switched his attention to the Nigerian after growing frustrated in his pursuit of Che Adams. The report claims the Birmingham City striker was his top target, but negotiations have broken down, leaving the Austrian to seek alternatives.
Okereke is a Nigeria U23 international and last season scored 10 times and provided 12 assists from his 30 Serie B appearances for Spezia. The forward is valued at £5.4million by Transfermarkt and can play as a striker or on the left wing – his versatility makes him an attractive prospect for the club.
The Sun have suggested that despite interest from other Premier League clubs including Newcastle, Crystal Palace and Wolves, Southampton are the frontrunners to sign the 21-year-old.
However, the Italian website claims Genoa and Sassuolo could go head-to-head for the capture of Okereke. The Sun suggests the attacker could also be wanted by Antonio Conte, as the former Chelsea coach revamps his Inter Milan side.
Saints have already signed one African player this summer, Mali international Moussa Djenepo, who arrived from Standard Liege in a deal reportedly worth around £14million.
