Report: Inter Milan and Atletico Madrid want Southampton defender Ryan Bertrand

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Southampton defender Ryan Bertrand could be on his way out this summer. According to The Daily Mail, European duo Atletico Madrid and Inter Milan want to sign Bertrand.

The ex-Chelsea defender has been with Southampton since 2014, initially on loan. During that time, he has racked up a tally of 171 appearances, seven goals and 18 assists.

Last season, Bertrand played 24 games for the Saints. He currently shares his left-back duties with Matt Targett. And Bertrand’s exit could propel Targett into the full-time starting role.

Bertrand could be given the chance to play Champions League football again. Atletico Madrid finished second in La Liga last season and want a replacement for Bayern Munich-bound Lucas Hernandez at left-back.

Inter Milan also want the 19-cap England international. Antonio Conte has his eye on the English league for his recruitment and Bertrand is one of his targets.

With two years remaining on his contract, the Saints are ready to cash in on Bertrand. Southampton rate the 29-year-old at around £15m but potential suitors want him for under £10m.

TBR’s view

Southampton have two good English left-backs in Bertrand and Targett. And Hasenhuttl might decide that Targett is the one to persevere with, given his age compared to Bertrand’s.

This would also allow another promising left-back, Jake Vokins, to be promoted as second-choice. Alternatively, Sam McQueen could be given another chance once he recovers from a long-term injury.

Bertrand has been a loyal servant for Southampton over the years, staying despite interest from the big clubs. This could be his last chance to earn a move to a major European club and play Champions League football again so the deal makes sense for all parties – at the right price.