Southampton plotting January move for 17-year-old English defensive stalwart | OneFootball

Southampton are willing to add Reading ace Andre Garcia to their defensive ranks in January.

A few days ago, Hull City negotiated a loan move to sign Southampton's Charlie Taylor. Though the defender is yet to be convinced, the general feeling remains that he will depart through the exit door.

This news comes at the same time when Kyle Walker-Peters' contract situation is unclear. A host of Premier League clubs and Galatasaray are currently leading the race to sign him in June.

Thus, Southampton's defensive core, especially the left-back position is gradually weakening. Only two weeks ago, club legend Francis Benali publicly disagreed with Southampton's left-back acquisition spree.

At that time, his criticism felt right. However, the current situation again reminds us, never say never in the Premier League.

Further, Southampton's long-term planning must be praised given that they are swiftly making new reinforcements as well. Now, the Saints are actively pursuing the signature of Reading's Andre Garcia.

Southampton plotting January move for 17-year-old English defensive stalwart

Recently, Fabrizio Romano reported that the Saints have even tabled multiple bids to Reading for the defender.

In his own words, Romano said: "Southampton submit bid to Reading worth £2m total package for 17 year old LB Andre Garcia. Opening proposal was rejected last week and Southampton are now trying again."

Obviously, a left back like Garcia has the potential to succeed in the Premier League. Still, the best attribute about him is his versatility to play multiple roles in the lineup.

According to Transfermarkt, the English teenager can also operate as a wing back and even as a wide attacker. With these traits, Garcia resembles a similar profile as Southampton's Kyle Walker-Peters.

Thus, the reported £2m bid could prove to be a bargain in the future. On top of that, Garcia could get much chances in the Championship if Southampton are relegated.

If he makes a lasting impression there, he could form Southampton's future defensive unit. But, first of all, we need to see whether Reading accepts Southampton's transfer offer.