Major Update Emerges On Potential Southampton Departure
Burnley have reportedly moved on from their pursuit of Southampton winger Nathan Tella, who spent last season on loan with the Clarets, according to Football Insider.
The recently promoted Premier League side had been hopeful of securing a return for the player who impressed whilst on loan with them last season as he contributed 19 goals in 45 games to secure the title for Vincent Kompany’s side. Whilst Burnley found themselves returning to the top flight, Southampton were relegated which has prompted several high profile players to seek moves away from the club.
According to the report, Burnley have explored moves for Tella and Chelsea’s Ian Maatsen but have been put off by the valuations as Southampton continue to utilise the winger for their own Championship promotion push. The 24-year-old has started in all three of the south coast side’s games this season, playing in 100% of the available minutes whilst also chipping in with a goal and an assist.
Burnley have also moved on from a move for Maatsen from fellow Premier League side Chelsea, who also enjoyed a hugely successful loan spell, appearing 42 times and scoring on four occasions from a defensive position. The former Charlton Athletic and Coventry City loanee has also made an appearance in the Premier League this season for Chelsea coming on in the final nine minutes of their 1-1 draw with Liverpool.
Southampton are also reportedly interested in Sunderland’s Patrick Roberts, but face competition from Celtic and Blackburn Rovers for the 26-year-old, who is entering the final 12 months of his contract. Russell Martin’s side have started the season well, sitting in 4th place after beating recently promoted Plymouth Argyle 2-1, courtesy of a late Che Adams goal. The striker is also attracting interest as many speculated his strike could have been a farewell to the club’s fans as he potentially seals a move to Everton.
Writer’s View
Vincent Kompany’s side have been on a spending spree since marking their return to the top flight, adding eleven new faces to the squad, spending £78 million and could make a move for a “prolific striker for £25million” according to Football Insider. It is therefore understandable that the club may look to negotiate a lower price for the pair and I still suspect a move will happen later in the window, most likely for Maatsen but I wouldn’t rule out a return for Tella.
