Southampton boss Ronald Koeman has admitted his admiration for Feyenoord midfielder Tonny Vilhena after being linked yet again with the promising Dutchman.
Koeman gave Vilhena his Feyenoord debut during his three-year tenure at the club and after an up and down few years for the 20-year-old since Koeman’s departure, a reunion between the two could happen sooner rather than later.
A deal for Vilhena was in place last January for a reported fee of £3 million, however Dutch giants Feyenoord were not to be pushed around as they stood firm to their valuation of £5 million for the midfielder. The Saints also pushed for a move for Vilhena last summer, but opted to secure the services of Oriol Romeu and Jordy Clasie instead.
Ronald Koeman was a key part in Feyenoord’s success between 2011 and 2014, mainly due to his use of their youth academy, as he gave chances to the now-Southampton man Jordy Clasie and of course Tonny Vilhena, himself. Koeman told Voetbal International of his high regard for Vilhena in a recent interview.
I know Tonny (Vilhena) – it has not been easy for him in his sporting and private life, but if I him see play, I see quality. He is strong, has a good running ability and a great left foot.
Let me put it this way – the interest is still there, even if you rather think of next summer than this winter.
Would you like to see Vilhena at Saints next season?
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