Southampton are on the verge of losing Virgil Van Dijk but they have found his replacement already. According to reports, the Saints are in talks with Sporting Lisbon defender Ruben Semedo. The 23-year-old has emerged as one of the highly rated defenders in the European circuit and a number of clubs are chasing him.
Saints defender Jose Fonte already left the club for West Ham United in the winter transfer window and losing another player will dash their hopes of finishing in the top half of the table next season.
Chelsea have emerged as the frontrunners for Van Dijk as Antonio Conte’s demand of a centre back has forced the club to look for alternative option rather than famous names. Van Dijk is a proven defender in the Premier League and is the perfect kind of a player that Conte has been searching for.
The Saints will demand a hefty fee for the player but Conte will have no problem spending a large chunk of money on him. Southampton have the history to indulge in many high profile transfers with the likes of Adam Lallana, Nathaniel Clyne and Luke Shaw recently and it seems Van Dijk will follow suit.
Semedo has earned accolades for his matured performance at Lisbon and his departure could leave a void in the club’s backline. However, they inserted a £38m release clause in his contract which could be a hindrance to his transfer. Southampton could use the money from Van Dijk’s transfer on Semedo who could be a perfect replacement for him. The defender has the perfect combination of strength and height and he could be ideal for the English environment.
Newcastle United are also reportedly in line to land Semedo at the St James Park. Rafa Benitez needs a defender and his ball playing abilities has attracted the attention of the Spaniard. Also, Semedo is young and his defensive attributes will improve under his guidance.
Southampton chairman Ralph Krueger hinted that there will be sufficient flow of money into the club and Claude Puel will have the freedom to choose his players. They have produced some of the most renowned names in the Premier League history and Semedo could soon join the list. Also buying the player for cheap will give them an opportunity to make a huge profit on him later if they decide to sell him.
