Southampton should act fast as Leeds United have reportedly joined them in the race to land Oxford United centre-back Rob Dickie.
According to Football Insider, Leeds are now keeping tabs on the defender, with Southampton and Burnley also interested in him.
The report claims that Leeds’ scouts were impressed with Dickie’s performances and they are now preparing a summer swoop for the Englishman.
With Leeds now joining the race to sign Dickie at the end of the season, Southampton could need to move quickly in order to secure a deal for his services. This is because they are now facing serious competition for his signature, with both Burnley and Leeds eyeing him up.
Making an early bid for Dickie could show him that Southampton are desperate to sign him and that they have faith in his ability to make the step up to the Premier League. This could help in tempting him to pick Southampton over Burnley and Leeds, as it could reassure him that Ralph Hasenhuttl will give him opportunities next season.
Dickie has recorded an excellent WhoScored rating of 7.26 for his performances in League One this season and has won 4.4 aerial battles per game, which is higher than any Southampton defender has managed in the Premier League. He is only 24 and has the potential to grow and develop as a player over time, with Hasenhuttl having the chance to coach him and make him accustomed to Southampton’s system.
Signing the defender could be a good decision as he could improve Hasenhuttl’s defensive options. His ability in the air and his room for growth could make it a wise deal for Southampton to complete.
