Southampton given boost in bid for World Cup star
Published:
Southampton have been given a major boost in their pursuit of Holland star Jordy Clasie after the midfielder hinted at an exit from current club Feyenoord.
Saints boss Ronald Koeman is a long-term admirer of Clasie and oversaw the 23-year-old’s integration into the first team at De Kuip.
The Eredivisie outfit are reluctant to let go of their rising star but Clasie’s latest comments signal a move now looks on.
Speaking after Feyenoord’s recent 2-2 draw with Heerenveen the midfielder told reporters: “Maybe this was my last game for Feyenoord. It is possible I might leave.”
Southampton attempted to sign Clasie for £5m in January but it is believed the Dutch side will hold out for a fee closer to £13m.
Manchester United have also been linked with a move for Clasie, with Red Devils boss Louis van Gaal placing his faith in the playmaker at last summer’s World Cup.
However, talk of a move to Old Trafford has died down in recent weeks and Koeman’s desire could ultimately see the south coast side win the race.
Clasie would be more likely to start at St Mary’s than at United with Southampton likely to be bidding farewell to Morgan Schneiderlin.
The France international is a wanted man, with north London rivals Tottenham and Arsenal both rumoured to be preparing bids, and Koeman is resigned to losing his star midfielder.
Koeman is understood to have his eyes on a number of other targets too, with Burnley defender Kieran Trippier a 10/1 shot to join the Saints and West Brom striker Saido Berahino also priced at 10/1 to make the switch to St Mary’s.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.
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