Southampton enquiry for Hibernian’s Josh Mulligan points to summer midfield exits | OneFootball

Southampton have registered interest in Hibernian midfielder Josh Mulligan, a move that hints at departures in the engine room. According to Sainstmarching.com, the approach signals planning for summer losses.

Tonda Eckert's side enter a second straight Championship season with a midfield that looks well stocked. Downes, Jander, Charles and Bragg have impressed since the turn of the year.

Flynn Downes was outstanding in the run-in. Caspar Jander has drawn attention from RB Leipzig, VfB Stuttgart, Ajax and Premier League clubs, while Shea Charles has what the report describes as a laughable £20 million offer from Leeds United.

Retaining all three looks unlikely, hence the Mulligan move. Stuttgart remain keen on Jander but would need to sell before meeting Southampton's £21.6 million valuation, Charles' future is uncertain and Downes could depart if the Premier League calls, with Ipswich Town surely considering a bid.

Mulligan, 23, is a combative Hibs number 20 who averaged 4.7 duels won per league game in 24 Premiership outings, adding three goals and five assists in 33 matches in all competitions. West Ham United are also monitoring him.

He is not a like-for-like for Jander or Downes, but he covers ground and wins the ball, the profile Eckert prefers. The Scottish Premiership has helped Southampton before, with Victor Wanyama arriving from Celtic in 2013.

Mulligan would not match Jander or Downes for quality, which is the point. An enquiry in June suggests departures, with Johannes Spors driving a sell and rebuild.

Source: Sainstmarching.com