Southampton’s progress has been jolted a bit this season. After impressing massively under Mauricio Pochettino and then under Ronald Koeman, the club has taken a step backwards. More than having taken it, they have been hindered and thwarted repeatedly by their tendency to sell their best assets every year, from their best players to their excellent managers.
But the fact that they have still managed to be consistent despite the frankly befuddling policy of the club is a nod to their desire to mingle amongst the best in the division. Claude Puel had this difficult task of maintaining their solidity and eking out results to ensure their recent impressive league standings are maintained, if not bettered.
They did start off well but there was an inevitable slump which sees them in the 13th position now. Puel’s side has been disturbingly poor in recent weeks and have lost their last 4 matches in the league. And to make matters worse, other than the Tottenham Hotspur game, all the other matches were winnable games on paper.
It is no wonder that their slump has coincided with two of their most important players being linked with moves away from the club. While Jose Fonte, the club captain, has actually wanted out in a transfer request, Virgil Van Dijk, who is probably their most important player has been linked with the likes of Chelsea, Manchester City and Everton amongst other big clubs.
As we know, there is no smoke without fire and hence there is a certain degree of conjecture at this point regarding the long-term future of these two stalwarts in defence and the break in rhythm due to the constant speculations has had a direct effect on the results on the pitch.
But the Saints have to overcome this period of uncertainty and by the looks of it, Puel is already targeting a defender. According to reports, Julian Korb is being targeted by Claude Puel along with a number of other Premier League clubs.
The Borussia Monchengladbach player has caught the eye of potential suitors across Europe despite Gladbach not having the best of seasons as the German side sit just 4 points above relegation zone. He has already played twice against Manchester City in the Champions League and 18 times in total for them.
Known for his versatile nature, the player can play as a right-back or also in midfield. The 24-year-old has 18 months left on his contract with Gladbach and, after enduring a difficult start to the season, the club could well cash in on their prized asset before the January window shuts. The Saints are looking to bring in some fresh faces who could reinvigorate their dwindling campaign and this will certainly be an exciting addition to their options.
