Southampton have joined the race to sign Luton Town defender James Justin this summer, according to the Football Insider.
The reliable outlet report that Championship side Aston Villa made a £7.5 million bid for the 21-year-old, and now Southampton along with fellow Premier League sides Leicester City, Crystal Palace and relegated Fulham are thought to have made similar bids for Justin.
The English defender has had an impressive season for Luton, as the club won the League 1 title to secure promotion to the Championship, and Justin is a player attracting a lot of interest this summer.
It is believed that he is likely to leave Kenilworth Road during the summer transfer window, with Justin only having another 12 months on his current deal at Luton.
Good signing for Southampton?
James has had a very encouraging season for Luton in League 1, making 49 appearances in all competitions for the League 1 champions and being named in the league’s Team of the Season.
The 21-year-old offers real composure in possession and has real attacking intent in from full-back, meaning he would be an ideal option for Southampton, who have used both wing-backs and a flat back-four at times this season which are positions Justin could operate well in.
James offers the flexibility of being able to play at both right-back and left-back, meaning he would be able to provide cover for Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side in both positions next season.
This is Futbol rating 7/10
Likely to happen?
James’ performances this season in the English third tier have led to a lot of interest in the full-back, meaning Southampton will face a lot of competition to secure his signature.
However, Southampton have the advantage of being guaranteed to be in the Premier League season, while Aston Villa, who have also made a move to sign him, will have to contest the play-off final before they can be sure of their league status next term.
Southampton have a good reputation for developing young players over recent years, which could make the club an attractive move for the 21-year-old’s development, but with other clubs interested it will be difficult for the Saints to win the race for his signature.
This is Futbol rating 6/10