Southampton player set for St Mary's exit - transfer exit agreed | OneFootball

Southampton have agreed the permanent exit of Zach Awe

Southampton and Salford City have reached an agreement for defender Zack Awe.

According to Football Insider, the 21-year-old is set for a permanent move to the League Two side after the two clubs agreed terms on a deal.

It was initially reported exclusively by FLW that the centre-back had interest from both Salford and Walsall.

Awe initially came through the Arsenal academy system before moving to underage level at St. Mary’s in 2023.

The youngster made the temporary move to Accrington Stanley last season, where he made 21 appearances in League Two, helping the team earn a 21st place finish.

Zach Awe set for permanent Southampton exit

Awe is now set for a permanent exit from Southampton after an agreement was struck between the player and Salford City.

A fee has been agreed between the two clubs, and now personal terms have also been finalised, taking the player one step closer to the exit door.

Awe has been unable to break into the first team squad at Southampton, and is not a part of Tonda Eckert’s long-term plans for the side, leading to his permanent exit from the Hampshire outfit.

The defender’s senior experience comes from his time on loan with Accrington Stanley last season, and he will now return to League Two as a result of this move.

Salford City are in the mix for promotion to League One this campaign, so will be hoping this signing can bolster their defensive options in their bid for a top three finish.

Meanwhile, Southampton are aiming to climb the table and earn a top six finish in the Championship, with their sights set on a return to the Premier League.

The two clubs have until 2 February to conduct any remaining transfer business before the market shuts.

Zach Awe permanent exit makes most sense for all parties

Awe did well on loan last season, but it was clear that he was not part of the first team squad at Southampton, so an exit makes a lot of sense.

A move to Salford is a clear step up within League Two, and he will have the chance to compete for promotion to the third tier with this switch.

The 21-year-old’s career will benefit from getting away from the Saints on a permanent basis, as going out on loan again and again can be quite disruptive.

This is a solid start to the window for both clubs in what could be a busy few weeks ahead.