Southampton are targeting a move for LASK Linz attacker Thomas Goiginger this summer, according to a report from the Daily Mail.
The outlet report Ralph Hasenhuttl has been monitoring Goiginger since January, and the Saints are now thought to be lining up a bid of £5million for the Austrian winger.
Linz are believed to be reluctant to allow the “fast and skilful” 26-year-old to leave them this summer, but it is thought that an opportunity to compete in the Premier League could be appealing to the winger.
Good move for Southampton?
Goiginger has the flexibility to play on either side of the pitch and offers plenty of pace and trickery down the flanks, with the Austrian scoring an impressive nine goals in 16 appearances for Linz this campaign.
The 26-year-old’s old form for his club earned him a first call up to the senior Austria international squad in November 2018 for their UEFA Nations League matches against Bosnia and Northern Ireland.
Southampton could do with some extra added quality in the attacking third of the pitch, and Goinger’s tactical flexibility would allow him to fill in on either wing for Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side meaning that he could be a very useful addition to the Saints squad.
If Hasenhuttl’s side can secure the Austrian’s signature for around £5million it would leave them with plenty on money left to strengthen other areas of the pitch in the summer, and if the 26-year-old performs well for the Saints it could seem a bargain in a years time.
This is Futbol rating 8/10
Likely to happen?
Hasenhuttl is thought to have been targeting the winger throughout the January transfer window, meaning the Saints will have been monitoring his situation for the last few months ahead of the summer transfer window.
That could give Southampton the advantage of being the first side to show serious interest in the 26-year-old, and Goiginger is believed to be potentially open to moving to the Premier League.
Therefore, if Southampton can swiftly manage to arrange a deal the Austrian seems like he would willing to accept terms and move to the English top flight this summer, but much will depend on the valuation Linz place on the winger with the club thought to be keen on retaining his services.
This is Futbol rating 7/10