With speculation last week linking Aston Villa with a potential renewed approach for Southampton Academy graduate Matt Targett, as the week came to a close it was claimed that they were now after a second player and wanted to do a double deal for striker Charlie Austin.
The claim came from Football Insider and to be honest I struggle to believe it.
Targett, as previously covered makes sense for the newly promoted Premier League side as most Southampton fans agree he’s a talent, even if he has plenty of development left to do and most of us, I think, would be loathed to lose him.
Austin had a woeful year by any standard and manager Ralph Hasenhuttl clearly doesn’t see him in his plans following his words about finding a suitable arrangement that sees him move on, but after last season I’d be surprised if any Premier League side came in for him.
I’m an Austin fan and last season was out of character on a goalscoring front, but the game moves quickly and I’d imagine the easier way for the 29-year-old to re-establish himself would be at one of the relegated Championship sides as he looks to get his mojo back.
I know they are looking for a replacement for Chelsea loanee Tammy Abraham, but this seems typical rumour mill invention for me. What matters for us of course, is we move him on quickly now.
Hasenhuttl Believes First Signing Is A “Strong Start” From Southampton In The Transfer Window
