Southampton have made an attempt to sign AC Milan’s Andre Silva, according to Gazzetta Dello Sport.
They claim The Saints have offered €18million (£16.17million) for a loan with an option to buy.
The report suggests the Serie A side are willing to do a deal, however, they want a figure that is similar to the £34.2million they paid Porto for him two years ago.
The 23-year-old spent last season on loan at Sevilla where he scored nine goals in 27 La Liga matches. The attacker’s future at the Rossoneri appeared to be in doubt, but things may have changed now Marco Giampaolo is in charge.
The forward is valued by Transfermarkt at £19.8million and can operate on either wing or as a central striker.
Ralph Hasenhuttl could see the Portugal international as a replacement for Charlie Austin. He is six years younger than the Englishman and can play in more positions.
Austin only managed to score twice in the Premier League last season, so maybe the Saints boss will think Silva would contribute more goals. Austin has been linked with a move away from St Mary’s with Sheffield United and Aston Villa both interested.
