According to Portuguese publication A Bola, Southampton are interested in Sporting Lisbon defender Ruben Semedo.
The Saints are thought to be keen on a move for Semedo this summer as Ronald Koeman looks to increase the depth in his squad this summer. With Europa League football to cope with next season Koeman is going to need to have strength-in-depth throughout the squad.
Virgil Van Dijk and Jose Fonte have been the undisputed centre-back partnership this season, with no real competition for either of their places. Semedo could come in and provide a good test for the reliable duo.
The 22-year-old defender spent the season at Vitoria, on loan from Sporting, and made 15 appearances for the side. He impressed, leading to speculation surrounding his future.
Semedo has one cap for Portugal’s under-21 side, scoring in that match, and is seen as a potential senior international for his Country in the future.
Whether or not Semedo would come in and take captain Fonte’s place in the team is unclear, in the event that he is to sign, however, the young Portuguese defender’s talents are clearly recognisable and he would suit Saints extremely well with his technical ability and comfortability on the ball.
The Daily Mirror are now reporting that Saints are poised to spend up to £12 million to lure Semedo to St Mary’s next season.
