Serie A pair Atalanta and Genoa have reportedly enquired about a deal for Mohamed Elyounoussi, but would this be a move that suits him?
According to claims from TuttoMercatoWeb, the Italian duo are the latest clubs to express respective interests in moving for the Norwegian, who looks all but set to depart before the European transfer window closes.
Having signed him for £16 million from FC Basel last summer, the report claims Saints will look for a fee worth €14 million if he is to be sold permanently.
Read Southampton’s verdict
It’s encouraging, if a little surprising, to see that there has been plenty of interest in Elyounoussi despite his dismal first season on English soil.
He appeared to be nearing a move to Besiktas this week, but the emerging claims from Italy suggest that he has a decision to make, with clubs from Serie A now reportedly interested.
The apparent asking price of €14 million from Southampton is fanciful, to say the least, and a loan move would surely be the more feasible outcome as the European window edges closer to its conclusion.
Atalanta would provide Elyounoussi with an intriguing transfer. They finished third in Serie A last season and will be playing their football in the Champions League this term.
Genoa, meanwhile, would likely offer the winger more assurances over regular game time.
Elyounoussi may suit Serie A more than he has the Premier League, but it is difficult to see either club agreeing to pay the reported valuation of €14 million if Saints are set on a permanent sale.
