Bologna are showing interest in Southampton forward Manolo Gabbiadini next summer. According to recent reports, the Italian striker is in talks with the Serie A club over a possible transfer back to Italy. Some sources in the Italian press are claiming that the 26-year-old is in talks with the Italian side as he is keen on departing the South-coast in search of greener pastures.
Gabbiadini has found the back of the net just four times this season in the Premier League, with two of those goals coming in his side’s clash versus Newcastle, one from the penalty spot against West Ham United and one against Burnley last month. The Italy international has been used sporadically by Mauricio Pellegrino, who has often opted for Shane Long and Guido Carrillo over him for the bulk of this campaign. The lack of first-team opportunities has left him frustrated and seeking a move away from the St. Mary’s Stadium.
It has also been revealed that Gabbiadini made it clear in January that he wanted to part ways with the club. The ex Napoli forward is currently on a €2.5m-per-year contract with the Saints and could possibly leave in the summer if he agrees to take a pay cut. With Mauricio Pellegrino’s side set to lose the centre-forward, let’s take a look at three replacements that the Saints can consider next summer.
Solomon Rondon
The Venezuelan has scored seven goals and made two assists in 31 appearances for West Bromwich Albion this season. However, his form can improve as he’s a striker that thrives on confidence. With his contract set to run out in the summer of 2019, the Saints can try to move in for him next summer and unleash him at the St. Mary’s Stadium. Pellegrino is likely going to be on the lookout for a forward in the summer who can lead the lines for the Saints and Rondon’s pace and power make him an ideal candidate to take up that role at Southampton.
Iago Aspas
The Spanish striker has been in terrific form for Celta Vigo following his arrival from Sevilla in the summer of 2015. The former Liverpool forward has scored 17 goals and made 5 assists in 29 appearances for Celta Vigo this season. Mauricio Pellegrino should do all he can to lure him out of Spain ahead of the new campaign as Aspas has the talents to turn the Saints’ fortunes for the better and ensure a strong finish in the Premier League or the English Championship next season.
Sébastien Haller
The Bundesliga forward has done well for Eintracht Frankfurt this season and is considered as one of the brightest prospects coming out of France. The 23-year-old has scored 12 goals and made 6 assists in 28 Bundesliga appearances so far. The Saints can use someone of his goal-scoring ability who can help them in their cause of having a strong campaign next term.
