As reported by 90min, Southampton are facing fresh transfer interest in Danny Ings, with both Everton and Leicester City having entered the race to sign the 28-year-old, who has yet to commit to a new deal at St Mary’s.
There has been intense speculation surrounding the striker’s future throughout the transfer window so far. It had been reported that Tottenham had considered reviving their interest in him from last summer and would look to make a move for him this month. However, Jose Mourinho has since played down the chances of that happening, suggesting they do not need another striker.
Ings has yet to commit his future to the club, but it has been reiterated by Southampton CEO Martin Semmens that the 28-year-old remains happy at St Mary’s and that there are no money issues halting talks over a potential new contract. Ralph Hasenhuttl has stated his desire to keep hold of him but he has also hinted that the Saints would swiftly move on were he to leave.
It has now emerged that both Everton and Leicester have entered the race to sign Ings, with both clubs potentially set to make a move for him in the summer if he does not commit to a new four-year deal which has been offered to him, according to 90min. The same report added that, if Southampton cannot agree on new terms with him, they will be forced to sell him in the summer.
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Ings was always likely to catch the attention of numerous clubs given his contract situation and his failure thus far to commit his future to the Saints despite the two parties having held talks. It has been reported that he wants to play Champions League football, and that could ultimately make the difference as to whether he stays or goes.
Everton have shown signs this season that they can compete for a place in the top four, with Carlo Ancelotti having made massive improvements at Goodison Park since taking over 13 months ago.
Meanwhile, Leicester have not only demonstrated they can compete with the best in the league, but they may even be in contention to win the Premier League title. The Foxes may need someone to support Jamie Vardy and Ings might well be tempted if they secure a top four finish. For now, the Saints will just have to wait anxiously to see how this saga plays out.
