WATFORD, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 09: Southampton Manager Russell Martin during the Sky Bet Championship match between Watford and Southampton FC at Vicarage Road on December 09, 2023 in Watford, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
Southampton manager Russell Martin aims a jab at Manchester United for their rumored attempts to buy Tyler Dibling at a price he considers way too low.
It has been a miserable return to the Premier League for the Saints who currently lie at the very bottom of the table with only five points assembled from the first 15 matchdays. They have also recorded the worst goal difference in the league (-20), as an immediate return to the Championship is already looming on the horizon.
Nevertheless, Dibling’s emergence has been one of the few bright lights in an otherwise miserable campaign for the club. Hence, it’s easy to see why Southampton are clinging tooth and nail to the teenager.
In his first campaign with the senior squad, the 18-year-old midfielder has contributed with a goal and two assists in his 16 appearances in all competitions.
Reports in the British media have been linking him with the likes of Manchester United and Aston Villa, with some claiming that the Red Devils are prepared to fork out a £21-million offer to secure his services.
Nevertheless, Martin insists his pupil isn’t going anywhere for these figures, even though they’re still struggling to renew the player’s contract (expiring in 2027).
“I was told some rumours about Man Utd, one was a bid of £21m. I’m not sure you’ll get his left foot for that,” said the Saints boss in his post-match press conference ahead of the league encounter against Tottenham (via Sky Sports).
“We have offered him a contract, a really good contract for someone his age. At the minute, I don’t think his agent agrees, so that’s where we’re at.”
Southampton manager Russell Martin dismisses Man United offer for a Tyler Dibling
EASTLEIGH, HAMPSHIRE – JULY 19: Tyler Dibling of Southampton runs with the ball during the pre-season friendly match between Eastleigh and Southampton at Silverlake Stadium on July 19, 2024 in Eastleigh, Hampshire. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
Martin believes the young player’s will is to stay at St. Mary’s Stadium, thus giving the club a glimmer of hope.
“I think Tyler wants it done, I think Tyler’s parents want it done, so we’ll see how long that takes.
“There is an option. We can extend. I don’t think we want to do that – we want to reward Tyler for his performances.
“I’ve spoken to Tyler’s mum and dad about it, I’ve spoken to Tyler, but then I’m not involved in any of the negotiations – that’s down to Phil [Parsons, chief executive] and the gang, the owners and Tyler’s agent – and that’s where it gets tricky.”