Southampton’s £10m interest in Joakim Maehle is good news for Rangers’ hopes of keeping James Tavernier

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Southampton are desperate to sign a new right-back after Ralph Hasenhuttl sanctioned the exit of Cedric Soares.

Inter Milan completed the signing of Cedric on loan until the end of the season with a view to a permanent signing.

The Saints are now solely reliant on impressive youngster Yan Valery. But Hasenhuttl wants another right-back to compete with the teenager.

Southampton have recently been linked with James Tavernier, according to The Express.

Hasenhuttl had identified the Rangers captain as a potential right-back solution, although Steven Gerrard slapped an £8m price tag on the defender in a bid to keep him.

Rangers fans would have been concerned that the 27-year-old might jump ship this month, leaving them with Jon Flanagan as the first-choice right-back.

Although Tavernier’s defensive work has been questionable at times, he has been a key part of Gerrard’s plans and his attacking threat is vital for Rangers.

But today’s transfer rumours will ease Rangers fans’ worries. According to The Daily Mail, Southampton are interested in Genk right-back Joakim Maehle.

The Denmark under-21 international plays in the Belgian league, where he has impressed Southampton scouts.

The south coast side are ready to launch a £10m bid for the 21-year-old to replace Cedric at The St Mary’s Stadium.

If Southampton land Maehle, then this would probably end their pursuit of Tavernier, allowing him to focus on his title bid with Rangers.