Southampton interested in Croatian defender Karlo Bartolec

Southampton hold an interest in signing Karlo Bartolec from FC Nordsjælland this summer, according to Danish reports.

The Croatian defender operates primarily as a right-back, meaning that he may be lined up as a backup option for Cedric Soares ahead of next season, with Saints on the lookout for defensive depth this summer.

Bartolec enjoyed a strong season with Nordsjælland, helping them to qualify for the early stages of the Europa League, but he may yet secure a move away from Denmark ahead of next season.

The 23-year-old was understood to have been a target for Dinamo Zagreb during the January transfer window, but the club were reluctant to spend €2.5 million on the player.

Bartolec, in June, discussed the interest from Zagreb and Southampton.

There were some queries in the winter break, but my club demanded 2.5 million (euros). And that was too much for Dinamo. At the same time, there was a bid from Nantes, but we agreed to wait until after the season. I’m glad I stayed. We qualified for Europe and Southampton shows serious interest.

Saints’ interest in signing Bartolec is again reaffirmed by Tipsbladet today, as they indicate that whilst Nordsjælland are keen to keep hold of their prized assets, the promising defender could be on his way out of the club.