Southampton are unlikely to lose any of their most influential performers in the January transfer window with the Saints maintaining a firm stance over their established stars, but Michael Obafemi could be allowed to leave the club, according to reports from Hampshire Live.
The Saints have enjoyed an excellent start to the campaign under Ralph Hasenhuttl and had gone seven matches unbeaten before their 3-2 loss against Manchester United on Sunday. The likes of James Ward-Prowse, Jannik Vestergaard and the injured Danny Ings have excelled for the Saints so far this season, and they are very much unwilling to consider cashing in on any of their key players in January, as per Hampshire Live.
However, Obafemi is one player who could be set to leave St Mary’s during the winter window, with the forward having struggled for game-time so far this term. Therefore, a move away could be the best option for the 20-year-old to continue his development, per Hampshire Live.
The forward was linked with a potential move to Aston Villa in the summer, but that move did not materialise and the 20-year-old has managed to make just one substitute appearance in the Premier League so far this term. That came during the final 13 minutes of their win at Burnley back in September, as per Transfermarkt.
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Obafemi is a player with a lot of potential but his work rate has been questioned by Hasenhuttl in the past; and considering the potency of Ings and Che Adams, it is difficult for the Irish youngster to force his way into the side. That could mean a move away from St Mary’s is best for his development.
The 20-year-old showed his potential at times last season, hitting three goals and supplying two assists in his 21 Premier League appearances (Sofascore). He has been labelled as ‘fantastic’ by Hasenhuttl in the past but he has not been able to show his best form on a consistent basis.
Were he to leave the club on loan in January, it would probably be a good move for his development and offer the Saints a chance to reassess his situation in the summer. Therefore, it seems a temporary switch might be the best option for all parties.
