Southampton’s Troy Deeney hopes could receive boost from Danny Welbeck

Add as preferred source on Google

Southampton have been linked with a surprise late move for a striker, with the Sunday Mirror (11/10; page 73) reporting that Ralph Hasenhuttl is keen on Watford’s Troy Deeney.

The 32-year-old is an intriguing target for the Saints. The club have tended to focus on signing players not yet at their peak. Theo Walcott is the only player over the age of 30 to have arrived during Hasenhuttl’s tenure.

Nevertheless, Deeney could arguably be a shrewd signing if he is indeed on their radar. Several fans seemed content with the links.

There remains a concern that the Saints could struggle if they lose Danny Ings to injury at any stage, so landing a proven Premier League goalscorer like Deeney makes sense to plenty.

However, the Mirror’s report noted that Southampton were not the only team in the running. Brighton and West Brom also reportedly want Deeney.

Fortunately, it would appear that one of their rivals may have another target in mind. And it turns out that it is a player Hasenhuttl had previously considered this summer.

The Daily Mail reported this week that the Seagulls want Deeney’s former teammate Danny Welbeck. Welbeck is now a free agent after leaving the Hornets recently.

It was noted by the Mail that Southampton previously showed interest in the England international. But it may now be Welbeck who takes a reported rival out of the running to sign Deeney.

Of course, even if Brighton do sign Welbeck, West Brom would remain in the race if reports are correct. But Saints may have few complaints if Brighton’s interest in Deeney is on the back burner while they potentially look elsewhere.