Summer 2022 Transfer Window

[Baird of the land]

Disappointing that Bednarek permanent deal to West Ham failed. 

[Badger]

18 minutes ago, Saint Garrett said:

Southampton’s transfer window: Maitland-Niles, Caleta-Car and a very busy last month

Jacob Tanswell

Sep 2, 2022

3

 

As the window neared its conclusion, Southampton’s head of recruitment Joe Shields could often be seen walking around the Staplewood campus with a phone glued to his ear.

Throughout the summer, Ralph Hasenhuttl’s squad had been in a state of flux, with several moving parts… well, not actually moving.

Southampton did not receive an offer for any player in June or July, leaving a number of those the club were open to letting go in limbo.

Hasenhuttl wanted to streamline his squad while strengthening key positions. He sought a versatile full-back and a striker who could transform Southampton in attack. It was no coincidence, in his opinion, that the best spells of his tenure have always coincided with a clinical forward leading the line.

Earlier this summer, it had been mentioned that Southampton were willing to move past the £20million ($23.1m) mark and the club-record fee paid for Danny Ings in 2019 should the right calibre of attacker be available.

Southampton stepped up attempts in the final weeks of the window.

---

On August 9, Sport Republic co-founder and Southampton director Rasmus Ankersen flew to Denmark to watch his former club FC Midtjylland face Benfica in the second leg of their third-round Champions League qualifier.

That evening, Ankersen spoke to Benfica’s president Rui Costa over the possibility of signing forward Goncalo Ramos. It is thought Ankersen wanted to work out the parameters of a deal in view of a potential bid.

Sources in Portugal say Benfica were keen to sell the 21-year-old for a fee considerable enough to reinvest into the squad. Their thinking, in part, was influenced by another forward on their books, Henrique Araujo, who is a year younger and internally regarded as the better prospect.

However, one source involved in brokering deals across Europe told The Athletic that Ramos has a release clause of €50million (£43m, €49.74) in his existing contract. That, though, is believed to protect his value should he develop over subsequent seasons rather than being a realistic price now.

 

 

Southampton baulked at the potential cost of a deal for Ramos (Photo: Adam Nurkiewicz/Getty Images)

Despite reports elsewhere suggesting negotiations were advanced, any deal for Ramos to move to the Premier League — Newcastle and Wolves also held talks — were only likely to materialise in the final week of the window. Ramos is thought to still have a good relationship with Wolves boss Bruno Lage, having worked together in Benfica’s B-team during the 2018-19 season.

Ankersen also led talks to sign PSV Eindhoven’s Cody Gakpo earlier this summer and had an initial bid turned down for the 23-year-old.

It reached the point where Southampton thought they had met the asking price, believed to be in the region of £30million (€34.8), and those with knowledge of the deal expressed confidence Southampton would ultimately get an agreement in place.

But a delegation from Leeds, led by director of football Victor Orta, offered a more lucrative package than Southampton and ultimately it was decided that Gakpo would remain in the Netherlands. There is now hope Gakpo will sign a new contract at PSV.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles has been a long-standing target of Southampton. They first came close to securing a loan deal in January 2021, only for the Arsenal player to join West Bromwich Albion instead. West Brom’s pitch, in which they promised him game time in his favoured position of central midfield as opposed to full-back, was seen a determining factor.

It is, however, thought Maitland-Niles’ stance has since relaxed and he is prepared to play full-back if circumstances necessitate.

Southampton, ideally, wanted a player who could operate at both left and right-back and Maitland-Niles fits the bill. He was viewed as a reliable presence in Hasenhuttl’s squad, especially when there may be uncertainty as to how Tino Livramento comes back following such a lengthy absence. Significantly, Maitland-Niles would also provide ample midfield cover to compensate for Oriol Romeu’s departure.

 

 

Southampton have tracked Maitland-Niles for a long time (Photo: Matt Watson/Southampton FC via Getty Images)

Given Hasenhuttl’s optimal squad size is between 18-20 first-team players, with the rest supplemented by promising talent from the B team, Southampton still had to shift players on. At the start of August, they had 27 in the senior squad, including six senior centre-backs. Hasenhuttl later publicly accepted he had an excess of centre-backs, felt keenly by the club wanting to strengthen in that position.

Talks were held over signing Conor Coady before his loan move to Everton from Wolves. Southampton’s hierarchy also asked about the possibility of signing Tyrone Mings when he was left out of Aston Villa’s starting XI in their opening-day defeat away to Bournemouth.

Jan Bednarek and Jack Stephens were made available for sale all summer, with both attracting interest in the final month. Having initially viewed Bednarek as the defender likely to generate the most money, Southampton were in dialogue with Villa over a loan move before West Ham United’s proposal of a permanent deal came close to an agreement.

Ultimately, Bednarek decided to join Villa and travelled up to the Midlands for his medical on Thursday afternoon. He completed a season-long loan with an option to buy.

Stephens, meanwhile, held talks with Championship outfit Watford, but they broke down in the final week. There was hope a deal could be resurrected should one of Watford’s centre-backs depart. In the end, Stephens joined Bournemouth, attending their goalless draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Wednesday night before undergoing his medical the next morning. The defender joined on a season-long loan with no option to buy.

Since signing last summer, there is an acceptance on Lyanco’s side that he has experienced challenges in adapting to the Premier League but was understood to have had his heart set on staying at the club and playing in the top flight.

With one year left on his deal, Yan Valery’s exit was not being ruled out on the morning of the final day of the window. The player sought regular game time and was inside the final year of his contract at St Mary’s. The defender travelled to France later on Thursday to complete a medical at Ligue One side Angers before joining on a permanent basis.

Marseille defender Duje Caleta-Car, in the meantime, was heading in the other direction. Caleta-Car has been the subject of interest from several Premier League clubs in recent years, with Wolves among his long-term admirers. The total package of Southampton’s deal to sign the defender, who was in the final year of his contract at Marseille, is worth between £12-15million.

 

 

Caleta-Car was a deadline-day signing from Marseille (Photo: Matt Watson/Southampton FC via Getty Images)

Ibrahima Diallo was another the club were willing to listen to proposals for and Southampton would look to have replaced the midfielder had he left. But any move was thwarted when La Liga side Girona were prepared to offer Romeu a three-year contract.

Girona’s pursuit of the 30-year-old was hastened following two lengthy injuries to midfielders Yangel Herrera and Ramon Terrats at the weekend. A return to Spain close to his home in Catalonia was thought to have appealed to Romeu and Southampton were reluctant to stand in his way.

Earlier in the week, the two teams were some way apart in agreeing terms for the midfielder but Southampton’s acquisition of Manchester City pair Samuel Edozie and Juan Larios helped the deal get over the line, with Girona under the City Football Group umbrella.

Theo Walcott’s future had been in doubt for most of the summer, with a departure only likely to transpire towards the end of the window when the player obtained a clearer overview of his status under Hasenhuttl. Walcott’s experience is seen as a valuable contributor and he was always content to stay should no transfer be finalised.

 

 

Sources close to Walcott vehemently denied Cardiff City’s interest after reports surfaced on the morning of deadline day. A viable approach from West Brom did arrive later on, with a season-long loan discussed.

Another winger whose future was up in the air going into the final day was Nathan Redmond. Southampton had been keen to offload the wide player, with Hasenhuttl omitting him from the previous five matchdays squad. Both parties sought a resolution.

The Athletic reported Wolves were among the teams interested in signing Redmond, with the player able to help fulfil their homegrown quota. However, the possibility a deal could be done appeared remote and was likely dependent on Hwang Hee-chan leaving Molineux.

Other clubs in Europe also expressed an interest in taking Redmond on the final day but talks were still in their preliminary stages in the afternoon. Bournemouth, having secured Stephens, began making enquiries about the 28-year-old.

With Bournemouth unable to loan another player from the same side, the question then centred on whether Southampton would terminate Redmond’s contract or if the buying club would pay a fee for him. There proved to be too many hurdles to overcome and from Southampton’s side, the move was called dead in the water.

A week before the window closed, Hasenhuttl insisted for the first time this summer that Che Adams was not for sale. The club had previously been willing to sell the forward, and were described as wanting “a change of direction”.

Everton had initially explored a loan-to-buy approach for Adams, but Southampton made it clear they would only countenance a permanent offer. Frank Lampard advocated the signing of Adams and saw him as a capable foil and deputy to Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

This led to Everton having a £14million bid rejected for Adams. Southampton were unprepared to lower their asking price and, signalled by Hasenhuttl’s comments, decided to draw a line under the matter. Everton lined up alternative targets such as Neal Maupay, which was seen to be the more straightforward deal to do.

Southampton’s summer finished how it started — proactive, youthful and a clear desire to reinvigorate an outdated squad.

Thanks for posting that.

[Dman]

23 minutes ago, Saint Garrett said:

Southampton’s transfer window: Maitland-Niles, Caleta-Car and a very busy last month

Jacob Tanswell

Sep 2, 2022

3

 

As the window neared its conclusion, Southampton’s head of recruitment Joe Shields could often be seen walking around the Staplewood campus with a phone glued to his ear.

Throughout the summer, Ralph Hasenhuttl’s squad had been in a state of flux, with several moving parts… well, not actually moving.

Southampton did not receive an offer for any player in June or July, leaving a number of those the club were open to letting go in limbo.

Hasenhuttl wanted to streamline his squad while strengthening key positions. He sought a versatile full-back and a striker who could transform Southampton in attack. It was no coincidence, in his opinion, that the best spells of his tenure have always coincided with a clinical forward leading the line.

Earlier this summer, it had been mentioned that Southampton were willing to move past the £20million ($23.1m) mark and the club-record fee paid for Danny Ings in 2019 should the right calibre of attacker be available.

Southampton stepped up attempts in the final weeks of the window.

---

On August 9, Sport Republic co-founder and Southampton director Rasmus Ankersen flew to Denmark to watch his former club FC Midtjylland face Benfica in the second leg of their third-round Champions League qualifier.

That evening, Ankersen spoke to Benfica’s president Rui Costa over the possibility of signing forward Goncalo Ramos. It is thought Ankersen wanted to work out the parameters of a deal in view of a potential bid.

Sources in Portugal say Benfica were keen to sell the 21-year-old for a fee considerable enough to reinvest into the squad. Their thinking, in part, was influenced by another forward on their books, Henrique Araujo, who is a year younger and internally regarded as the better prospect.

However, one source involved in brokering deals across Europe told The Athletic that Ramos has a release clause of €50million (£43m, €49.74) in his existing contract. That, though, is believed to protect his value should he develop over subsequent seasons rather than being a realistic price now.

 

 

Southampton baulked at the potential cost of a deal for Ramos (Photo: Adam Nurkiewicz/Getty Images)

Despite reports elsewhere suggesting negotiations were advanced, any deal for Ramos to move to the Premier League — Newcastle and Wolves also held talks — were only likely to materialise in the final week of the window. Ramos is thought to still have a good relationship with Wolves boss Bruno Lage, having worked together in Benfica’s B-team during the 2018-19 season.

Ankersen also led talks to sign PSV Eindhoven’s Cody Gakpo earlier this summer and had an initial bid turned down for the 23-year-old.

It reached the point where Southampton thought they had met the asking price, believed to be in the region of £30million (€34.8), and those with knowledge of the deal expressed confidence Southampton would ultimately get an agreement in place.

But a delegation from Leeds, led by director of football Victor Orta, offered a more lucrative package than Southampton and ultimately it was decided that Gakpo would remain in the Netherlands. There is now hope Gakpo will sign a new contract at PSV.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles has been a long-standing target of Southampton. They first came close to securing a loan deal in January 2021, only for the Arsenal player to join West Bromwich Albion instead. West Brom’s pitch, in which they promised him game time in his favoured position of central midfield as opposed to full-back, was seen a determining factor.

It is, however, thought Maitland-Niles’ stance has since relaxed and he is prepared to play full-back if circumstances necessitate.

Southampton, ideally, wanted a player who could operate at both left and right-back and Maitland-Niles fits the bill. He was viewed as a reliable presence in Hasenhuttl’s squad, especially when there may be uncertainty as to how Tino Livramento comes back following such a lengthy absence. Significantly, Maitland-Niles would also provide ample midfield cover to compensate for Oriol Romeu’s departure.

 

 

Southampton have tracked Maitland-Niles for a long time (Photo: Matt Watson/Southampton FC via Getty Images)

Given Hasenhuttl’s optimal squad size is between 18-20 first-team players, with the rest supplemented by promising talent from the B team, Southampton still had to shift players on. At the start of August, they had 27 in the senior squad, including six senior centre-backs. Hasenhuttl later publicly accepted he had an excess of centre-backs, felt keenly by the club wanting to strengthen in that position.

Talks were held over signing Conor Coady before his loan move to Everton from Wolves. Southampton’s hierarchy also asked about the possibility of signing Tyrone Mings when he was left out of Aston Villa’s starting XI in their opening-day defeat away to Bournemouth.

Jan Bednarek and Jack Stephens were made available for sale all summer, with both attracting interest in the final month. Having initially viewed Bednarek as the defender likely to generate the most money, Southampton were in dialogue with Villa over a loan move before West Ham United’s proposal of a permanent deal came close to an agreement.

Ultimately, Bednarek decided to join Villa and travelled up to the Midlands for his medical on Thursday afternoon. He completed a season-long loan with an option to buy.

Stephens, meanwhile, held talks with Championship outfit Watford, but they broke down in the final week. There was hope a deal could be resurrected should one of Watford’s centre-backs depart. In the end, Stephens joined Bournemouth, attending their goalless draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Wednesday night before undergoing his medical the next morning. The defender joined on a season-long loan with no option to buy.

Since signing last summer, there is an acceptance on Lyanco’s side that he has experienced challenges in adapting to the Premier League but was understood to have had his heart set on staying at the club and playing in the top flight.

With one year left on his deal, Yan Valery’s exit was not being ruled out on the morning of the final day of the window. The player sought regular game time and was inside the final year of his contract at St Mary’s. The defender travelled to France later on Thursday to complete a medical at Ligue One side Angers before joining on a permanent basis.

Marseille defender Duje Caleta-Car, in the meantime, was heading in the other direction. Caleta-Car has been the subject of interest from several Premier League clubs in recent years, with Wolves among his long-term admirers. The total package of Southampton’s deal to sign the defender, who was in the final year of his contract at Marseille, is worth between £12-15million.

 

 

Caleta-Car was a deadline-day signing from Marseille (Photo: Matt Watson/Southampton FC via Getty Images)

Ibrahima Diallo was another the club were willing to listen to proposals for and Southampton would look to have replaced the midfielder had he left. But any move was thwarted when La Liga side Girona were prepared to offer Romeu a three-year contract.

Girona’s pursuit of the 30-year-old was hastened following two lengthy injuries to midfielders Yangel Herrera and Ramon Terrats at the weekend. A return to Spain close to his home in Catalonia was thought to have appealed to Romeu and Southampton were reluctant to stand in his way.

Earlier in the week, the two teams were some way apart in agreeing terms for the midfielder but Southampton’s acquisition of Manchester City pair Samuel Edozie and Juan Larios helped the deal get over the line, with Girona under the City Football Group umbrella.

Theo Walcott’s future had been in doubt for most of the summer, with a departure only likely to transpire towards the end of the window when the player obtained a clearer overview of his status under Hasenhuttl. Walcott’s experience is seen as a valuable contributor and he was always content to stay should no transfer be finalised.

 

 

Sources close to Walcott vehemently denied Cardiff City’s interest after reports surfaced on the morning of deadline day. A viable approach from West Brom did arrive later on, with a season-long loan discussed.

Another winger whose future was up in the air going into the final day was Nathan Redmond. Southampton had been keen to offload the wide player, with Hasenhuttl omitting him from the previous five matchdays squad. Both parties sought a resolution.

The Athletic reported Wolves were among the teams interested in signing Redmond, with the player able to help fulfil their homegrown quota. However, the possibility a deal could be done appeared remote and was likely dependent on Hwang Hee-chan leaving Molineux.

Other clubs in Europe also expressed an interest in taking Redmond on the final day but talks were still in their preliminary stages in the afternoon. Bournemouth, having secured Stephens, began making enquiries about the 28-year-old.

With Bournemouth unable to loan another player from the same side, the question then centred on whether Southampton would terminate Redmond’s contract or if the buying club would pay a fee for him. There proved to be too many hurdles to overcome and from Southampton’s side, the move was called dead in the water.

A week before the window closed, Hasenhuttl insisted for the first time this summer that Che Adams was not for sale. The club had previously been willing to sell the forward, and were described as wanting “a change of direction”.

Everton had initially explored a loan-to-buy approach for Adams, but Southampton made it clear they would only countenance a permanent offer. Frank Lampard advocated the signing of Adams and saw him as a capable foil and deputy to Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

This led to Everton having a £14million bid rejected for Adams. Southampton were unprepared to lower their asking price and, signalled by Hasenhuttl’s comments, decided to draw a line under the matter. Everton lined up alternative targets such as Neal Maupay, which was seen to be the more straightforward deal to do.

Southampton’s summer finished how it started — proactive, youthful and a clear desire to reinvigorate an outdated squad.

Cheers. Some really interesting points, especially around Romeu’s move to Girona and them being under the city Group. 

[S-Clarke]

That was a good read, thanks for sharing.

We really wanted to totally revamp the attack by the sounds of it, even comments in there about us being happy to move Adams on at one point. I'm sure there's frustration that we're still kind of the same in that area. Those are always the most complicated and expensive transfers though!

Hopefully next summer, with less to do, we can double down on our focus on the attacking third. Let's just hope we've got enough goals in us this season.

[benjii]

56 minutes ago, Dman said:

Cheers. Some really interesting points, especially around Romeu’s move to Girona and them being under the city Group. 

We also sent someone on loan to FC Troyes, which is a City Football Group club.

It's sensible to have good relations with clubs like that if it means we build trust and pick up some of their good youngsters.

[Bad Wolf]

I see Pep has been talking us up again today. He actually loves us. 

[Saint Mikey]

14 minutes ago, S-Clarke said:

That was a good read, thanks for sharing.

We really wanted to totally revamp the attack by the sounds of it, even comments in there about us being happy to move Adams on at one point. I'm sure there's frustration that we're still kind of the same in that area. Those are always the most complicated and expensive transfers though!

Hopefully next summer, with less to do, we can double down on our focus on the attacking third. Let's just hope we've got enough goals in us this season.

With also the most risk. Every club in Premier League history must have spent big on an attacker/striker only for it not to come off. We're aware of our own high profile failures, but West Ham spent a fortune year on year with no value added to the team, until recently.

 

 

 

[Dman]

23 minutes ago, benjii said:

We also sent someone on loan to FC Troyes, which is a City Football Group club.

It's sensible to have good relations with clubs like that if it means we build trust and pick up some of their good youngsters.

It mutually benefits both clubs/groups. 
 

We’ll never, ever, be able to compete with City, so they can send their best young players to a PL side To develop and then buy them back at probably below market rate in a few years. Also, it’s helping them with FFP allowing them to buy the big name stars. 

Sensible business plan from all involved and I’m absolutely fine with it. 

[skintsaint]

16 minutes ago, Dman said:

Sensible business plan from all involved and I’m absolutely fine with it. 

Will help us being best of the rest when they all fcuk off to the super league.

[skintsaint]

2 hours ago, OldNick said:

I dont know MLG , but we have to understand there are people out there he contribute who may have issues such as autism, I notice a poster said they did yesterday. I have a business friend who has Asperger's and life is very difficult at times. Therefore IF a poster seems full on perhaps we should actually sit back and show some understanding, we are behind computers afterall!

I suggest there are a lot on here who believe they are major personalities and feel superior to the rest of us mortals. To me MLG should come back and be welcomed, you dont have to read his posts. I only glance at most posts, and suspect most wot read this either Lol 

MLG is most likely just enjoying the summer with his kids..

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2x_DI7tzNQ

 

[gio1saints]

6 minutes ago, skintsaint said:

MLG is most likely just enjoying the summer with his kids..

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2x_DI7tzNQ

 

There are more than a few neurodiverse saints on this forum. Many of us live in the autistic spectrum but not all are as lucky to be Saints fans! 😇

[Saint_clark]

1 hour ago, Bad Wolf said:

I see Pep has been talking us up again today. He actually loves us. 

Hopefully City win the champions League this season or next so when Ralph retires we can line Pep up for his new challenge, as he's done the circuit of mega rich clubs buying the league and needs to prove himself with less funds

This could even be him preparing for that by sending City's best prospects to us so he has them to work with in 2 years time....

[Charlie Wayman]

1 hour ago, Bad Wolf said:

I see Pep has been talking us up again today. He actually loves us. 

We need a bright young manager to take over form Ralph when he hangs up his boots soon. 

[shirleysfc]

Does anyone know if there was anything in the Ross Barkley rumour in the end?

[Badger]

44 minutes ago, Dman said:

It mutually benefits both clubs/groups. 
 

We’ll never, ever, be able to compete with City, so they can send their best young players to a PL side To develop and then buy them back at probably below market rate in a few years. Also, it’s helping them with FFP allowing them to buy the big name stars. 

Sensible business plan from all involved and I’m absolutely fine with it. 

True to a point, although interestingly they'd rather adopt a different approach for their elite youngsters such as Delap, McAtee, and probably Palmer. Wonder why.

[humanslave]

3 hours ago, OldNick said:

I dont know MLG , but we have to understand there are people out there he contribute who may have issues such as autism, I notice a poster said they did yesterday. I have a business friend who has Asperger's and life is very difficult at times. Therefore IF a poster seems full on perhaps we should actually sit back and show some understanding, we are behind computers afterall!

I suggest there are a lot on here who believe they are major personalities and feel superior to the rest of us mortals. To me MLG should come back and be welcomed, you dont have to read his posts. I only glance at most posts, and suspect most wot read this either Lol 

This. Times 100.

[Badger]

17 minutes ago, Charlie Wayman said:

We need a bright young manager to take over form Ralph when he hangs up his boots soon. 

Perhaps this is a rile Selles is being prepared for.

I've mixed feelings on this as it worked for Ankerson at Brentford with Thomas Frank, bi=ut our own experiences of promoting good backroom staff have been disastrous.

[Chez]

4 hours ago, Turkish said:

Maybe, reports said we wanted a fee for Redmond. I don’t think he’s as bad as some make out, could do a job somewhere. Can either of them still move on loan? It does say quite a bit that 4 players who were first choice only a year ago we can’t get anyone else to buy.

if we terminate now, or in other words pay up their contract, a day after the window has closed, they can't fid a new club until the next transfer widow. If we had terminated yesterday they could now look for another club in their own time.

Redmond can still bring something to the party this season. OK, so he is down the pecking order, but injuries can change things, especially as the bench is big these days. 

 

[Chez]

3 hours ago, Baird of the land said:

Disappointing that Bednarek permanent deal to West Ham failed. 

yep. Nice saving on wages, but it felt like a clean break was needed by both parties and the transfer fee would be very handy before next summer when we will no doubt need to balance the books a little.

[Chez]

4 hours ago, Saint Garrett said:

Ralph just said in his presser than there are still a few windows open and moves might still happen, when talking about Redmond and Theo...can't see either of them going to Turkey, but who knows.

what windows are open? Please say Brazil. A Brazilian striker at the 13th hour...

Or do you mean windows open to sell Redmond and Theo? Cant see them going to Turkey either.

[itchen]

For what it's worth, the Guardian has done a review of all Premier League clubs transfer activity. Here's their view in ours:

 

Southampton

The early signs suggest the Saints have done some of the best business in the division. The 20-year-old Armel Bella-Kotchap, one of 10 new faces, has made a big first impression. Southampton’s new head of recruitment, Joe Shields, turned to his former club Manchester City to bring in four youngsters: Roméo Lavia, Gavin Bazunu and – on deadline day – Sam Edozie and Juan Larios. Southampton’s faith in youth is not a gimmick but genuine, hence why Jan Bednarek was allowed to depart to Aston Villa and the long-serving Jack Stephens, Oriol Romeu and Shane Long were moved on. Duje Caleta-Car arrives from Marseille with a big reputation and Ainsley Maitland-Niles will be determined to enhance his after joining on loan. At the start of the window another striker seemed logical but Ché Adams and Adam Armstrong have hit the ground running. BF

Tottenham

[sadoldgit]

Sounds as if we might have dodged a bullet with Gakpo. It seems he had his heart set in a move to United all summer and didn’t sound that interested in us or Leeds. He looks like a player but we need people here who are prepared to play for the shirt rather than feeling that they have ended up with the bridesmaid rather than the bride.

[Chez]

10 hours ago, DT said:

What a drag on the club Redmond has been. Really held us back. Symbol of 'old Saints' hanging around like a bad smell

bit harsh. How has he held us back? It's not like his fee and wage have prevented us signing half a dozen other attacking midfielders wingers since to replace him, but sadly until now, they've all be pretty shite too.

OK, he hasn't been good in a lot of games over the years, but as someone on here said a few weeks ago, maybe more of us fans, me included, just need to support the whole team, good and bad. He's a saint, not a fucking skate cunt. 

 

[Chez]

8 minutes ago, sadoldgit said:

Sounds as if we might have dodged a bullet with Gakpo. It seems he had his heart set in a move to United all summer and didn’t sound that interested in us or Leeds. He looks like a player but we need people here who are prepared to play for the shirt rather than feeling that they have ended up with the bridesmaid rather than the bride.

he was linked with them all summer. must have been a real come down to only have us after him. You might be right. If his heart is not in it, better he doesn't join.

[Chez]

10 minutes ago, itchen said:

For what it's worth, the Guardian has done a review of all Premier League clubs transfer activity. Here's their view in ours:

 

Southampton

The early signs suggest the Saints have done some of the best business in the division. The 20-year-old Armel Bella-Kotchap, one of 10 new faces, has made a big first impression. Southampton’s new head of recruitment, Joe Shields, turned to his former club Manchester City to bring in four youngsters: Roméo Lavia, Gavin Bazunu and – on deadline day – Sam Edozie and Juan Larios. Southampton’s faith in youth is not a gimmick but genuine, hence why Jan Bednarek was allowed to depart to Aston Villa and the long-serving Jack Stephens, Oriol Romeu and Shane Long were moved on. Duje Caleta-Car arrives from Marseille with a big reputation and Ainsley Maitland-Niles will be determined to enhance his after joining on loan. At the start of the window another striker seemed logical but Ché Adams and Adam Armstrong have hit the ground running. BF

Tottenham

I've always thought that many players peak at 25 not 30. Going younger is the way. We have no choice really if we want that quality. The average age of the squad must be pretty low, not Ajax CL semifinal  low, but pretty low.

I really hope Edozie and Larios can step up quickly. Getting all those City lads in the side could help build a tremendous team spirit and momentum perhaps.

[Hawkswood]

4 hours ago, OldNick said:

I dont know MLG , but we have to understand there are people out there he contribute who may have issues such as autism, I notice a poster said they did yesterday. I have a business friend who has Asperger's and life is very difficult at times. Therefore IF a poster seems full on perhaps we should actually sit back and show some understanding, we are behind computers afterall!

I suggest there are a lot on here who believe they are major personalities and feel superior to the rest of us mortals. To me MLG should come back and be welcomed, you dont have to read his posts. I only glance at most posts, and suspect most wot read this either Lol 

Very fine post mate. Actually my 12 year old nephew is autistic, very very bright kid but will always struggle socially. I suppose if MLG does come back and resumes his old traits it might be worthwhile, in a tactile way, asking him politely if he realises what he says comes out the way it does. Might be a chance for us all to learn something.

I mean, I won't say anything cos I never do. I'll leave that to Turkish. 

[Turkish]

40 minutes ago, Chez said:

if we terminate now, or in other words pay up their contract, a day after the window has closed, they can't fid a new club until the next transfer widow. If we had terminated yesterday they could now look for another club in their own time.

Redmond can still bring something to the party this season. OK, so he is down the pecking order, but injuries can change things, especially as the bench is big these days. 

 

I thought out of contract players can still sign for new clubs outside of transfer windows?

[Ted Bates Statue]

4 hours ago, OldNick said:

I dont know MLG , but we have to understand there are people out there he contribute who may have issues such as autism, I notice a poster said they did yesterday. I have a business friend who has Asperger's and life is very difficult at times. Therefore IF a poster seems full on perhaps we should actually sit back and show some understanding, we are behind computers afterall!

I suggest there are a lot on here who believe they are major personalities and feel superior to the rest of us mortals. To me MLG should come back and be welcomed, you dont have to read his posts. I only glance at most posts, and suspect most wot read this either Lol 

I personally feel that he is much better suited to Twitter. I had a look the other day and he was quite rightly taking Hampshire Police's football account to task over Man Utd fans with flares being included front and centre on the Saints website's best images of the day.

If he were still on here he would be wasted on us, trying his utmost to get other posters tangled in his sticky web of pedantry. But if he wants to berate other fans into believing that Gakpo's most likely destination is Southampton, I am all for that.

On a final note, please could the mods put this sort of epic chat in a thread separate to the transfer window discussion? Maybe Turkish could come up with a title.

[badgerx16]

18 minutes ago, Turkish said:

I thought out of contract players can still sign for new clubs outside of transfer windows?

I think that only applies if the contract is terminated before the window closes.

 

Edit: https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/2446027/burnley-transfer-news-joey-barton-re-signs-for-clarets-on-short-term-deal-until-the-end-of-the-season/

Edited 2 September, 2022 by badgerx16

[FarehamSaintJames]

Not sure if it’s been covered but Yan Valery’s fairwell message was very good. Obviously came over and played through a lot of the tough times, never a world beater but have it his all.

Wish him the best. 👍🏻

[verlaine1979]

27 minutes ago, Chez said:

I've always thought that many players peak at 25 not 30. Going younger is the way. We have no choice really if we want that quality. The average age of the squad must be pretty low, not Ajax CL semifinal  low, but pretty low.

I really hope Edozie and Larios can step up quickly. Getting all those City lads in the side could help build a tremendous team spirit and momentum perhaps.

I remember reading something a few years ago where Dortmund's sports science team had decided that players started their physical decline at 26. Specific to their recruitment model and playing style, but doesn't seem unreasonable. Sure you can win things with players older than that (much older in the case of Real Madrid) but if you don't have the big budget and are hoping to compete on energy and tactics, early 20s is probably the sweet spot.

[Toadhall Saint]

3 hours ago, Bad Wolf said:

I see Pep has been talking us up again today. He actually loves us. 

What did he say? Any links?

[SuperSAINT]

7 minutes ago, Toadhall Saint said:

What did he say? Any links?

[SuperSAINT]

 

[Convict Colony]

8 minutes ago, SuperSAINT said:

 

Bro your watch is over, go take a break, let us amateurs post shit links you need to remind yourself that the sun is round.

[AlexLaw76]

 

[Sfcphilc]

Broja new 6 year deal at Chelsea.

[AlexLaw76]

 

[M271]

Ralph reaction to the transfer window, the new recruits and some thoughts on the Wolves match.

Every word Ralph Hasenhuttl said on Romeo Lavia, Southampton transfers, Wolves and team news - HampshireLive

[SuperSAINT]

 

[Dorchester Saint]

Almost 24hrs since the window slammed shut.

My opinion (I’m allowed)

Ralph gets another chance from me (I was done with him)

He likes young talent and his preferred playing style is well known. I think for the first time he  has the tools he needs to do his thing. 

Best we can do now is back Ralph and this new Southampton FC and see what comes.
 

I won’t lie….I’m excited  !! 

[SuperSAINT]

 

[31cc]

4 hours ago, FarehamSaintJames said:

Not sure if it’s been covered but Yan Valery’s fairwell message was very good. Obviously came over and played through a lot of the tough times, never a world beater but have it his all.

Wish him the best. 👍🏻

https://twitter.com/yan_valery/status/1565666412848349184

[woodsaint1]

Booked in the 89th minute and then sent off in the 91st minute for diving. Maybe we dodged one here.

On other note, check out the penalty Benfica did get. The Portuguese league is certainly not corrupt 😂

[saint1977]

Looks like this thread not finished quite yet. Redmond could have a couple of good years for one of the bigger Turkish sides, play some more European football and then finish back at Birmingham. If Saints don’t ask for much of a fee, the wage differentials might be OK. 

I’m happy to trust the club on Barkley - if they feel he still has appetite to play top level football and can help a young squad then he could add a lot further forward in midfield and contribute goals. No question of his quality or ability. Depends how fit he has kept at Chelsea before the compromise agreement was reached. His behaviour has allegedly been questionable in the past and there were rumours that some of Les Reed’s signings led youngsters like Obafemi off the rails so the club would have to be convinced that Barkley has turned a corner and wants to leave the bars and clubs alone. 

Edited 2 September, 2022 by saint1977

[Convict Colony]

11 hours ago, SuperSAINT said:

 

Whose the grey haired guy who greets them when they walk in the door ? thought it would be shields greeting them since he is head of 1st team recruitment.

Edited 3 September, 2022 by Convict Colony

[ally_uk]

I'd take Ross Barkley call me an optimist but I reckon he could do a job. 

Experienced could mentor the youth 

 

[OldNick]

He was viewed as a reliable presence in Hasenhuttl’s squad, especially when there may be uncertainty as to how Tino comes back following such a lengthy absence

Is it just me who feels the wording of this may be ominous?

[hypochondriac]

44 minutes ago, ally_uk said:

I'd take Ross Barkley call me an optimist but I reckon he could do a job. 

Experienced could mentor the youth 

 

Blackmore has already rubbished it. 

[Lighthouse]

50 minutes ago, ally_uk said:

I'd take Ross Barkley call me an optimist but I reckon he could do a job. 

Experienced could mentor the youth 

I've never bought that line of thinking and I don't know why people think that any experienced older player is going to improve younger players by default. We have coaches to mentor the youth, that's their job. People have been saying it about Long and Walcott for years and yet the likes of N'Lundulu, Obafemi and Tella have shown little, if any, improvement.

Thankfully it's a nonsense rumour which have just popped up on social media. I don't want Ross Barkley.