Liverpool is reportedly monitoring Tyler Dibling’s situation at Southampton, with a battle between several Premier League sides expected later this summer to secure the winger’s services.
Dibling was perhaps the only bright spark in a dismal season for the Saints, with the south-coast club earning just 12 points, the second-lowest tally in Premier League history.
In his first campaign in the English top flight, the teenager stood out with his dynamic dribbling, close control and ability to draw a foul. That may not have translated into game-changing actions - with just two goals and one assist - but his ability to show glimpses of talent in such a dysfunctional side underlines Dibling’s potential.
At just 19, he is expected to have no shortage of suitors this summer. There had even been suggestions in March that Dibling could cost clubs up to £100 million ($129M), a figure that looks fanciful given Southampton’s relegation.
Manager Russell Martin laughed off suggestions he could cost as little as £21M ($27M) earlier in the season, claiming interested parties “won't get his left foot for that”.
Football Insider has since claimed Dibling could cost around £55M ($75M) with the player “expected” to leave this summer as an “open race” takes place to sign the attacker.
The foul from Robertson on Dibling that led to Southampton's penalty
Dibling faced Liverpool three times this season (Image: 2024 Robin Jones)
Liverpool is one of the sides mentioned in the report, along with Manchester United, Manchester City, and Tottenham Hotspur.
Dibling operates mainly as a winger cutting inside from the right onto his favored left foot, but is also capable of playing as a no.10 or a striker.
He came through Southampton’s youth system and left in 2022 to join Chelsea. However, Dibling returned to St Mary’s just two months later after he failed to settle in London.
Tyler Dibling
Dibling has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs. (Image: 2024 Southampton FC)
The England youth international had made just five appearances prior to this season, and despite his impressive first campaign in the Premier League, his performances dropped off in the latter stages. He failed to provide a goal or assist after January 16 and started four straight games on the bench in April.
Where a left-footed winger would fit into Liverpool is another question, given Mohamed Salah’s performance levels this season and the return of precocious talent Ben Doak from loan this summer.
The Reds also have Federico Chiesa, who tends to play from the right, in addition to the arrival of Jeremie Frimpong. The Dutchman’s ability to play in an advanced role was a pivotal factor in Liverpool choosing to sign the former Celtic man.