Carlton Palmer reckons that Issa Diop to Southampton is a move that would suit both parties.
The defender, who was valued at £50m by West Ham when linked with Tottenham just over 18 months ago, has fallen out of favour under David Moyes.
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Diop featured in just under half of the Hammers’ Premier League games, although the majority of those only came once Angelo Ogbonna was ruled out with an ankle problem.
But once the Italian returned, the 6 ft 4 beast dropped back to the bench, which has led to increased speculation over his future, with Southampton one of many Premier League sides interested in the 24-year-old.
Diop has made nearly 100 appearances since moving to east London from Toulouse three years ago, but having slipped down the pecking order, his days in the capital appear to be severely numbered.
Southampton’s need for a centre-back has desperate following a campaign which saw them ship 68 goals – with only relegated West Brom conceding more.
Saints’ defensive problems could worsen should Jannik Vestergaard opt to move away from St Mary’s given he has just one year remaining on his contract, and Palmer exclusively told This is Futbol could prove an ideal replacement for the Dane:
“I think that would be a good move. Again, Diop wants to play, he would play regular football at Southampton, and it would be a good move for both parties.”