Southampton starlet Leo Rodella has turned down a contract offer, with Juventus keen to swoop in, according to The Secret Scout.
Southampton are set for a major squad overhaul following their relegation from the Premier League. After a dismal season that saw them collect just 12 points from 38 games, barely avoiding Derby County’s all-time low of 11 points in 2007/08, the Saints now face a critical rebuilding phase.
In the end, their only real accomplishment was steering clear of being labelled the worst team in Premier League history. Now, the focus shifts to what lies ahead at St Mary’s, where optimism is growing under the guidance of highly-rated head coach Will Still.
Southampton boss Will Still
Image courtesy of: PETER CZIBORRA/REUTERS.
That said, a number of departures are expected this summer, with both key players and fringe squad members likely to move on. Now, one of their star youngsters looks set to depart.
According to the Secret Scout on X, Leo Rodella has turned down a scholarship and professional deal with the Saints. The 16-year-old is now able to leave the club this summer due to his Italian passport.
Italian Giants Juventus are keen to bring the midfielder in. A deal would be relatively straightforward for them, with Southampton unable to stop Rodella leaving.
The Saints would be due compensation for the outgoing Rodella due to his homegrown status. It is believed they would receive around £160,000 for the midfielder.
A shame for Southampton
The Saints have a good reputation when it comes to developing young players. The club have many academy graduates scattered across the EFL and the Premier League.
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Rodella could have been the next midfielder to break into the side from the Southampton production line. The likes of Adam Lallana, James Ward-Prowse and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain were all examples Rodella could have looked at.
southampton, Southampton starlet rejects contract offer amid interest from European giant
Image courtesy of: FRANCES LEADER/REUTERS.
After Southampton’s relegation to the Championship, game time may have been possible this season for Rodella. Under Will Still, he could have developed well at St Mary’s.
Who else could leave?
So many of Southampton’s squad is linked with moves away so far this summer. It could be a near-unrecognisable side to the one that was relegated last season.
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Along with Rodella, another academy graduate in the form of Tyler Dibling is attracting interest across Europe. Taylor Harwood-Belis, Aaron Ramsdale and Matheus Fernandes also have interest from across the channel.
Even members of the Saints’ promotion-winning side two years ago could be let go. Joe Aribo and Adam Armstrong were expected to be major players this year, but both are allowed to leave for the right price.