Southampton ‘to sign’ Lewis Dobbin for £9m as they seek another Cyle Larin | OneFootball

Southampton are pursuing Aston Villa forward Lewis Dobbin in a £9m move, hoping for an instant attacking spark similar to Cyle Larin’s impact. Larin rejoined permanently before the World Cup, then scored two at the tournament and eight goals from 10 Championship starts.

Alan Nixon reported the Saints initially explored a loan after a £5m valuation, while The Athletic now reports they have beaten Middlesbrough to his signature for around £9m.

With Ross Stewart departed, fresh options up front are required. Dobbin is not a classic No 9, yet he delivered 10 goals and eight assists for Preston in the Championship last season and can operate wide or centrally.

Southampton have used the loan route well before, from Danny Ings to Flynn Downes, and Larin’s temporary stint became a success story. The hope is that Dobbin could hit the ground running if he completes the switch.

At 23, he already has 66 Championship appearances, so adaptation should be minimal compared with Larin’s previous jump from Mallorca. He is still seeking a first promotion from the division and could quickly endear himself to supporters.

If he supplies early goals, the outlay may look shrewd rather than excessive, and Southampton’s push to escape a fiercely competitive league would be better armed.

Source: Sainstmarching.com