Southampton have done possibly everything this season except scoring goals. The Saints have been pretty lacklustre in front of the goals and Mauricio Pellegrino is pretty adamant to put an end to this issue. According to reports, Southampton are considering to raid Barcelona for Paco Alcacer. The forward is currently surplus to requirement at the Camp Nou and the Catalans are willing to listen to offers for him.
Pellegrino was so confident in his attacking lineup that he decided to bolster the other departments having spent mostly on Mario Lemina and Wesley Hoedt. Both the players proved to be good value for money signings as they have excelled in their role.
But the main problem lies up front as Shane Long, Manolo Gabbiadini and Charlie Austin have remained quiet so far. The gaffer has preferred Long to lead the attack but the Ireland international hasn’t been in that kind of form off late and has had a long goal drought.
Gabbiadini had his chances this season but the big Italian seems to have lost his touch, following his brilliant introduction last season. Austin has fallen down the pecking order and couldn’t do much to improve his chances in the first team.
Despite the ongoing struggle, Alcacer remains one of the most prolific goal poachers in Spain. The Catalans spent £27m to bring him from Valencia but the 24-year-old has failed to displace Luis Suarez from his position.
The Spanish international has a good scoring record both for Valencia and Spain. Having played over 120 games for Valencia, the target man has found the net a whopping 43 times which gives us a rough idea about his talent.
Barcelona would like to recover their investment in the player so Southampton should take the player on loan with an option to buy, to lower the asking price. The forward can link up well with Saints’ attackers up front and can also retain the possession of the ball which is a very rare quality these days.
Pellegrino’s side has managed only four goals so far which has pointed out the need of a proper goals scorer. Alcacer is also keen to fight for a place on the Spain World Cup squad so he would welcome any move that offers him regular game time.
Southampton kept their summer transfer within limits so transfer funds won’t be a problem. Alacer is yet to prove his worth in the big league and this could be the best platform for him, should he arrive. But is he the right man for the Saints?
