03 Jul 2019 11:38:38
Hi Eds,

I have seen a lot of reports that Saints tried to take Andre Silva on loan from AC Milan - can't be true can it?
Some say we tried a loan with 18m Euro purchase?

{Ed002's Note - Not that I am aware.}


1.) 03 Jul 2019
03 Jul 2019 15:06:39
thanks Eds, i would be very surprised if true! Especially with who we've signed but you never know i guess. Just wish we would sort out the defence now as that's the biggest concern!


2.) 03 Jul 2019
03 Jul 2019 19:24:10
I agree. It is crucial we strengthen at the back. We made so many defensive mistakes last year. I never felt we'd win a game unless we were two goals up and into injury time! But I can't believe that we'll get to the end of the transfer window without signing at least one defender.


3.) 04 Jul 2019
04 Jul 2019 09:04:32
Agreed Andrew, I don't think our problems actually come from our attack, when we're losing games 3-2 and drawing 2-2, we've been scoring a couple of goals more often than not against good sides. It's the mentality to hold the lead when we go a goal down. Which I think RH will be able to sort out. But another CB would be a good option, I'd love it if we could switch to RH's prefered 4-2-2-2, but he's said that he doesn't have enough confidence in our CB's from one on ones so I wouldn't be surprised if a CB is a top priority.

Andre Silva, does tick our boxes because he's only 23 and has the potential. But with Adams and Ings arriving I wouldn't see the need to have him, especially with Long and Obafemi as well. Plus I'm assuming playing for AC Milan he will have huge wages.


4.) 04 Jul 2019
04 Jul 2019 11:50:38
I agree with you both and have heard and read what Ralph has been saying and it's clear to me that's where he is focusing on but not seeing anyone being linked to us which is strange!

In regards to Silva, I think he ticks every box as I worry about Ings being injured to much and I was told Obafemi was out till December (not sure if that's true) and would prefer him to go on loan and get some fitness and goals as he's unproven really. I would take Silva on loan with an option to buy as Long is off next year but don't think we would sign him.

It seems we have a huge list of players to get rid of and get down the salary costs. I wonder if that is stopping the recruitment at the moment.


5.) 04 Jul 2019
04 Jul 2019 14:49:21
Yes, shifting players has now become a priority and may well be holding up further recruitment. But I do expect to see some movement here, with Gallagher, Austin, McCarthy and possibly Lemina likely to depart.
As for CBs, we were vaguely linked with Bristol City's Adam Webster at one point. However, a reported fee of £30 million would probably be beyond us. Whoever we get, there is no doubt we need a better defence next season!