Southampton could revisit their interest in Brentford attacker Ollie Watkins this summer, according to Sky Sports.
The outlet report that Southampton have held a long-term admiration for Watkins and it is believed they will re-ignite their hunt to sign the 23-year-old, who enjoyed an impressive season in the Championship with Brentford being involved in 18 goals in 45 games in 2018/19.
However, Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side could face competition from newly promoted Sheffield United and Crystal Palace, who are both thought to be interested in making a potential summer move for Watkins.
Good signing for Southampton?
Southampton will be looking to improve their attacking options this summer, and Watkins could be the type of player needed to add extra creativity of the Saints.
The former Exeter attacker has enjoyed an impressive season with Brentford scoring 12 goals and registering a further six assists, suggesting he could be a useful player to have in Hasenhuttl’s side next term.
Watkins’ pace and ability to drive with the ball and commit defenders would be a very useful tool in helping to push Southampton further up the pitch, while his energy would be suited to playing the type of pressing game Hasenhuttl demands from his side.
Southampton have an excellent recent record for developing young and talented players like Watkins, and the winger could flourish with the Saints if he makes the move from Brentford this summer.
This is Futbol rating 8/10
Likely to happen?
Southampton will be facing competition from the likes of Sheffield United and Crystal Palace for the winger and will need to act swiftly if they to secure a move for Watkins.
However, having a very good reputation for developing young players could prove to be an advantage for the Saints hopes of securing his signature, with Watkins likely to be wanting to feel assured he will not be sitting on the bench of a club he potentially joins.
The Saints have been monitoring Watkins for a while and they will know all about his strengths and how to develop him, which could make the move an attractive proposition for the Devon-born ace.
This is Futbol rating 7/10