Leo Scienza drops Southampton transfer hint - Aston Villa & Leeds United will be on red alert | OneFootball

Leo Scienza is a man in demand as Saints target an immediate return to the top-flight

Southampton have enjoyed a remarkable run of form since the beginning of 2026, and it could end with at least one moment of glory, with Tonda Eckert's side combining a promotion bid with a deep run into the FA Cup.

The newly-relegated Saints had endured an extremely dismal run under Eckert's predecessor, Will Still, which saw the previously highly-rated boss relieved of his duties as early as November, before the German was eventually handed his current role at St Mary's after an initially impressive run of form as interim boss.

They were out of league action this weekend, having owed their focus to a historic FA Cup semi-final against Manchester City at Wembley Stadium, and are now preparing for a crunch clash with promotion rivals, Ipswich Town, on Tuesday night.

During the aforementioned upsurge in form which began after a 2-1 defeat to Hull City on January 17th, many of Eckert's squad have been the recipients of immense credit for their own performance levels, and Brazilian winger, Leo Scienza, is likely to continue having an inspired effect on the club's short-term fortunes.

Since signing from FC Heidenheim on Deadline Day back in September, the forward has immediately become a fan favourite through his goal contributions and overall commitment to the cause, although that could potentially only last a handful of more matches, with Scienza opening up on his situation amid well-documented transfer interest.

Leo Scienza issues transfer stance as Aston Villa, Leeds United monitor Southampton FC ace

So far this season, Scienza has posted seven goals and 10 assists in 35 Championship appearances, as well as standing out in Southampton's deep run in the FA Cup, mainly versus the Gunners in the previous round.

The 27-year-old playmaker has, unsurprisingly, attracted Premier League interest in recent weeks due to his starring role, with the likes of Aston Villa and Leeds United, who are plotting various routes towards European football, among those credited with interest.

It has also been claimed that the Brazilian has a £25m release clause in his contract, and it would be no surprise to see interest intensify if Saints miss out on an immediate return to the top-flight, and he has now outlined his current hopes and stance on the situation to Globo Esporte.

"That (promotion) was my main objective when I signed here. I had opportunities in the top divisions of Spain, Italy, France... I chose to come here because of the project. To go straight back to the Premier League, which is the best league in the world," said Scienza.

"At club level, there's nothing higher than playing in the Premier League. I really hope we can achieve that with Southampton, it's our goal. But if it doesn't happen, we have to sit down and think after the season about what our options are."

Southampton's chances of retaining Leo Scienza hinge on Championship success

The aforementioned release clause certainly impacts the amount of power Saints hold when it comes to negotiating a deal, which comes as a huge blow, even if the club and its supporters potentially expect an exit.

However, Scienza has demonstrated in such a short period of time that he is a cut above the Championship, which is also backed up by his spell in the UEFA Conference League last season with Heidenheim.

But, it will also assure Saints fans that he isn't distracted whatsoever by the outside noise as his team looks to write itself into folklore between now and the end of the season.