It’s been a summer of change for Southampton, with a new manager in charge following relegation from the Premier League.
After he was ‘buzzing’ about avoiding Derby County’s record low points tally, Aaron Ramsdale has left the Saints in favour of a move to Newcastle United leaving Will Still with a decision to make in the coming weeks.
However, the addition of Damion Downs is an exciting one, with Mauricio Pochettino telling the USA international to move to Hampshire.
Yet, there are concerns about Tyler Dibling’s future at Southampton, with Everton expected to return with a second bid for the 19-year-old. Nevertheless, the Toffees may have the perfect replacement for Still.
Southampton should sign Harrison Armstrong if Tyler Dibling leaves
Harrison Armstrong had a stunning loan spell with Derby in the second half of last season, and his performances were a huge reason behind the Rams’ survival, alongside the arrival of John Eustace.
Harrison Armstrong of Derby County looks on
Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images
The Everton youngster played 15 times for the East Midlands outfit in the Championship, scoring a stunning volley in a superb 3-2 away win over relegation rivals Plymouth Argyle in March.
Eustace was, and still is, a huge fan of the teenager and Derby do want to bring Armstrong back this summer, but the Toffees are waiting before they make a decision on his future.
The Rams’ head coach said of him in April (via: Derbyshire Live): “He’s been excellent. He’s maturing into a very good player. There is still a lot he needs to learn, but that was only his sixth or seventh start.”
Tyler Dibling’s versatility will be tough to replicate
Although Armstrong is extremely talented, he is an out-and-out midfielder, while Dibling can play in a multitude of positions.
‘He often found himself out wide last season, but Still may have other plans for him. This is why making a move for a central midfielder could be the best thing for Southampton.
Tyler Dibling celebrates during Southampton FC v Ipswich Town FC in the Premier League
Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images
Dibling will bring in a substantial fee and that could be used to find another established right-winger, while Armstrong can help in the middle of the park.
Southampton are going to need depth if they are to win promotion back to the Premier League, and working with Everton may just lead them on that path.