3 Midfielders Southampton Could Sign This Summer | OneFootball

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With the possibility of losing either Shea Charles or Caspar Jander this summer, Southampton should be in the market for a replacement central midfielder.

Whether the Saints decide to invest in potential or prioritise proven quality, there are plenty of midfielders across Europe who could fit the club’s recruitment profile.

1. Marcus Linday

If the Saints were to lose a midfielder this summer, Marcus Linday could be a smart replacement. He’s a highly progressive box-to-box midfielder, averaging almost 10 progressive actions per 90 and sitting in the 95th percentile for progressive passes among Eredivisie midfielders.

While he’s forward-minded in possession, his off-the-ball work is evident, as he has the third-highest duel percentage among Eredivisie midfielders. He averaged over seven defensive duels per 90 while winning 65% of them last season.

Despite joining Dutch side SC Heerenveen in January 2025, the 23-year-old has reportedly expressed a desire to leave this summer. SC Braga have submitted multiple bids, with their latest totalling €6 million – a fee Southampton could match.

2. Josh Mulligan

Having been previously linked to the Saints this summer, the 23-year-old is reportedly on their radar. He had an impressive debut season at Hibernian last year and won the club’s Young Player of the Year award.

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Speaking to Hibernian correspondent John Greechan in June, he described the extent of Mulligan’s physical presence to me:

With a vast amount of experience already under his belt, the Scotsman would offer Southampton a unique option in the midfield – one who’s a strong ball-carrier (91st percentile for progressive carries last season) and versatile, capable of filling multiple positions across the pitch.

Josh Mulligan made 24 appearances last season. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

3. Jens Hjertø-Dahl

Tromso midfielder Jens Hjertø-Dahl has been subject to significant transfer interest this summer.

The 20-year-old has been heavily pursued by Rangers and Cardiff City, and while no reputable source has yet confirmed it, Hjertø-Dahl could be on his way to newly-promoted Premier League side Hull City.

If Southampton lose one of Shea Charles or Caspar Jander this transfer window, technical director Johannes Spors should make the Norwegian his number one target.

Hjertø-Dahl is an exciting all-rounder of a midfielder with a tendency for box-crashing. The rising star could be perfect and suit all of Southampton’s needs, if they can beat competition for him.