Southampton’s setback: Azaz unavailable, Spertsyan may again become a priority

Championship side Southampton continues its search for an attacking midfielder to strengthen the squad. Previously, the Saints showed persistent interest in Krasnodar’s leader Eduard Spertsyan. According to media reports, the English club offered around €18 million for the Armenian midfielder, but the Bulls have not yet given a final answer.

At the same time, Southampton tried to sign Irish midfielder Finn Azaz, who plays for Middlesbrough. Last season, he became one of the team’s key players, scoring 12 goals and providing 11 assists in the Championship.

According to the BBC, the Saints offered £12 million for the 24-year-old, but Middlesbrough head coach Rob Edwards confirmed that the bid was rejected.

Thus, after the failed attempt to sign Azaz, Southampton may return to active negotiations with Krasnodar for Eduard Spertsyan, who remains among the club’s top transfer targets. However, the start of talks for Azaz shows that Southampton is already tired of waiting for a response from the Russian side.

See also:

Spertsyan’s agent: “Southampton is the perfect option, but everything depends on Galitsky’s decision”

Spertsyan on transfer to Southampton: "It's too early to talk about it"