Feature

What Southampton need to do in the summer transfer window

By Adrian Clarke 1 Jun 2024

Adrian Clarke on how Saints can improve their squad ahead of the 2024/25 season

Adrian Clarke looks at what Southampton need to do in the summer transfer window to improve their squad.

Southampton

Having conceded 63 goals in 46 Championship matches, only two fewer than relegated Birmingham City, Russell Martin must strengthen his promoted Southampton side at the back as they prepare for an instant return to the Premier League.

Towards the end of the 2023/24 campaign, he switched from a 4-3-3 to a fluid 3-5-2 formation, a move that improved their solidity, so we may see a continuation of that this season. This could lead to the arrival of at least one new central defender, and possibly a left-wing-back.

Winger Ryan Fraser filled that role in the playoff final, but Southampton will likely bring in more of a specialist to occupy that key position.

Saints must also replace Flynn Downes, who was superb for them in a holding midfield role last season. Downes has returned to parent club West Ham United, and his absence leaves a hole that needs to be adequately filled. If he does not rejoin them permanently, Martin will target a player that’s mobile and very comfortable in possession.

Leading scorer Adam Armstrong deserves another shot at top-flight football, as does Che Adams, who is in talks over a new contract after his current deal expired.

But neither forward has delivered a huge number of goals at the highest level before. So, it is likely Southampton will try to invest in a proven Premier League goalscorer.

They may also choose to recruit a goalkeeper, possibly on loan. First choice Gavin Bazunu is ruled out until 2025 with an Achilles injury, and it feels a stretch for Alex McCarthy - who was third choice for most of last season - to be handed the gloves in August. McCarthy is also currently in talks over a new contract to stay on the south coast.

Look out for a ball-playing 'keeper arriving at St Mary’s between now and the start of 2024/25.

Key positions to target: Goalkeeper, centre-back, centre midfield, centre-forward