Southampton already finds themselves in quite a mess this season as Claude Puel has simply not been able to do justice to what was expected from him. The Saints have come a long way since they were promoted back to the Premier League and were in the Europa League. Ronald Koeman, the club’s former manager left for Everton in the summer and his replacement Puel is yet to bring any kind of consistency out of his side.
Amidst the Saints’ hard time on the pitch, they have been hit hard by the news that their skipper Jose Fonte has handed in a transfer request. A pivotal member of the side, Fonte, has been frustrated by Puel’s too much rotation in the squad.
He was not selected for either of the Saints’ six Europa League group stage fixtures as Southampton crashed out of the competition. Even though the Euro Cup winner is now 33, he should not find it hard to get suitors for himself even at this age.
Here are three possible destinations for the 33-year-old.
Manchester United
The Red Devils were linked heavily with the Portuguese defender throughout the summer and reports claim that they are looking to renew their interest in the Euro jCup winner whose contract is up for expiry in 18 months.
Even though he is 33 now, Fonte seems to have 2-3 years left in him at the top level. The Euro cup winner deserves to play for a big club now and would be an important addition to Mourinho’s United side.
Everton
Everton are in a dire need for defensive reinforcements as in the first half of the season, it became pretty obvious that their backline is not the strongest. The Toffees started their era under Ronald Koeman pretty well but their joy was short-lived and their porous defence has been a key factor behind that.
Ashley Williams has been far from impressive in central defence since his move in the summer. Jagielka is at the dusk of his career and looks done at the top level.
The less we talk about Funes Mori, the better it is. Fonte reuniting with Koeman at Goodison Park could prove to be a brilliant deal for Everton.
West Ham United
West Ham’s season thus far has been a big letdown and the key reason behind that is their defensive disaster. The Hammers have the funds to make Fonte happy with his wages even though West Ham won’t be a step up in Fonte’s career.
The Portuguese international is miles better than any of the current West Ham defenders and can shore up their defence. If West Ham can pull off this deal, it could prove to be a season-changing one for the club.
