---
title: "Saints still interested in Vilhena"
canonical: "https://readsouthampton.com/2015/12/16/saints-still-interested-vilhena/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Luke Osman"
section: "Feature Writers"
published: "2015-12-16T18:08:31Z"
modified: "2015-12-16T18:08:31Z"
---

# Saints still interested in Vilhena

Southampton boss Ronald Koeman has [admitted](https://www.football-oranje.com/southampton-still-interested-in-vilhena/) 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.

![Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images Sport](https://media.readsouthampton.com/readsouthampton/2015/12/179580957.jpg)

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?