There has been an interesting development in Southampton’s rumoured chase for highly rated Sporting Lisbon defender Ruben Semedo, after the player’s agent revealed to Portuguese radio station “Antena1” that representatives from Saints had been in contact with him.
This comes just a day after it was widely reported that Saints were stepping up their interest in the defender, with a £12 million move being touted for the Portugal under-21 international.
There were people linked to Southampton who wanted to know more information about the player, but I can’t say there was an official contact about a real interest.
However, with Semedo’s agent Catio Balde confirming that there is an interest in his client’s services, it does indeed look as though the 22-year-old is on the radar of Ronald Koeman ahead of a summer move.
Southampton are, however, considerably strong in their starting centre-back area with Virgil van Dijk and captain Jose Fonte forming an excellent partnership at the back.
Of course, like any other youngster, Rúben has ambitions and has this dream, but first of all is to continue growing with Sporting’s shirt. If something that the club finds interesting shows up, I know Rúben will be prepared. However, he’s very focused and happy at Sporting.
But, with Saints involved in four competitions next season after the qualification for the Europa League group stage, squad depth will be key and a player of Semedo’s quality could prove to be more than useful.
Semedo may be happy at Sporting but the lure of the Premier League could prove to be too hard to resist for the exciting youngster.
