Southampton ‘to pursue’ Justin Njinmah as fans hope for not another Damion Downs | OneFootball

Southampton are again casting eyes towards Germany after the Damion Downs disappointment, with Justin Njinmah linked. Supporters will hope any new face is more Leo Scienza than Downs.

Bild claims Southampton and Premier League newcomers Hull City are in the hunt for Werder Bremen forward Njinmah, and that a reasonable fee would be required.

Downs arrived from FC Koln last summer for £7m amid expectations of an instant lift in attack. Instead, the 22-year-old has yet to score for Saints and endured a goalless loan at Hamburg, leaving his future uncertain.

Scienza, signed from Heidenheim last summer, has been a rip-roaring success by comparison. Njinmah, 25, carries pedigree of his own after a stint in Borussia Dortmund’s reserve ranks.

He has 84 Bundesliga appearances and 14 goals, and can operate centrally or off the flanks. He has also scored 36 times across the 3. Liga and Regionalliga Nord. That versatility could appeal on the South Coast.

By contrast, Downs had only 22 top-flight outings before moving. Some fear another German import might struggle with the Championship’s rough and tumble, although Njinmah’s experience suggests he would not be fazed.

Southampton have also made a statement up front, with a rumoured £9m outlay to land Aston Villa star Lewis Dobbin after a 10-goal season at Preston North End.

Any pursuit of Njinmah could demand a sizeable sum. If he does arrive, a sharp start would be vital to head off the demoralising Downs comparisons.

Source: Sainstmarching.com