Ralph Hasenhuttl’s Southampton are reportedly leading the chase for Joakim Maehle, with West Ham also reportedly pursuing the right-back’s signature.
Italian outlet Tutto Bologna Web recently reported that Bologna have been looking at Maehle but the pursuit of Sinisa Mihajlovic’s men has been hampered by Southampton leading the race for him.
Premier League side West Ham were linked with a move for Maehle back in the January transfer window. A Hammers-related Twitter account called ‘ExWHUemployee’ had said that the club had made an offer for Maehle in January.
A regular for Genk
Currently only 22, Maehle is a regular for Genk at right-back. He has made 25 Jupiler Pro League appearances for the club this season, picking up four assists on the way. He had played all six of the club’s Champions League games this season.
Maehle has been at Genk since the summer of 2017 when he had joined the club from Aalborg. Over the last three seasons, he has been a regular at right-back for the Belgian club and has made 114 appearances in all competitions. He has picked up five goals and as many as 18 assists.
Would Maehle be a good signing for Southampton?
I'd love him!
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TIF Tactics
Cedric Soares’ contract at Southampton runs out at the end of the current season even though he is on loan at Arsenal. The Saints did sign Kyle Walker-Peters on loan from Tottenham but the club doesn’t have the option to buy the Englishman on a permanent basis.
This leaves them only one recognised right-back in Yan Valery for next season. In that sense, they would need a player in that position in the transfer window. Maehle is 22 and is an established right-back who has played in the Champions League. They should sign him as he can add depth and quality.