Report: Real Betis want Sofiane Boufal; Southampton willing to sell for £4m

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Southampton are ready to let Sofiane Boufal leave this summer, with the Sunday People (13/9; page 57) reporting that Real Betis are eyeing the 26-year-old.

Boufal has endured a tough time since moving to St Mary’s. There have only been flashes of brilliance from the Moroccan, who has also spent time out on loan since joining in 2016.

He was not named in the squad for the Saints’ opening day defeat to Crystal Palace on Saturday. And it appears that he could soon be on the way out of the club.

The Sunday People (13/9; page 57) reports that Ralph Hasenhuttl’s men are willing to let their £16 million leave for just £4 million.

It is suggested that he is keen on returning to Spain amid interest from Real Betis. However, it is noted that Manuel Pellegrini’s side would rather take Boufal on a season-long loan.

TBR View: Agreement should not be difficult

The two clubs may be seeking different terms, but the distance between the two surely hints that an agreement may not be difficult to reach.

Southampton are not asking for a significant amount for a permanent deal. And as Boufal is out of contract next summer (via Transfermarkt), Betis are arguably being a lot more ambitious by seeking a loan.

Nevertheless, it hardly benefits anyone if Boufal stays for the final year of his contract – worth £65,000-a-week, according to Spotrac – if he is not going to play often. So both sides will surely want to make sure a deal can be finalised before the deadline.