Southampton have opened talks with Manchester City to sign full-back Issa Kabore, with a sale and loan being discussed, as per Ben Jacobs.
Southampton are looking to immediately return to the Premier League at the end of this season after finishing rock bottom of England’s top flight last campaign.
The opening game against Wrexham was decided in the final minutes, with late goals from Ryan Manning and Jack Stephens to take the win away from the newly promoted side.
Southampton boss Will Still
Image courtesy of: ANDREW COULRIDGE/REUTERS.
After a 1-0 win in the Carabao Cup, Southampton faced one of their former Premier League competitors, Ipswich Town, and drew 1-1 thanks to a headed effort from young Jay Robinson.
The Saints have made just two permanent transfers this summer – with Joshua Quarshie joining from Hoffenheim and Damion Downs signing from FC Koln – but could be set to add another to their ranks before the end of the transfer window.
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Ben Jacobs has reported that Southampton have opened talks with Manchester City over a move for Issa Kabore, who has previously spent time on loan at Luton Town and Benfica. A loan move and a permanent deal are being discussed, with the transfer still in an early stage.
The young right-back could provide competition for Yukinari Sugawara and allow Ryan Fraser to play higher up the pitch in one of the attacking midfield roles, potentially replacing Matheus Fernandes, who could still leave for West Ham.
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Southampton targeting players with German football experience?
Southampton have made both of their two summer signings from German clubs, and Kabore could continue the trend of scouting in German football. The Manchester City man spent six months on loan at Werder Bremen last season, but he made just nine appearances and three starts in the second half of the season.
While he didn’t play often, Kabore’s statistics (per 90) still compare very well with other attacking right-backs, including Sugawara at St. Mary’s.
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Werder Bremen's Issa Kabore celebrates at the end of the match
Image courtesy of: THILO SCHMUELGEN/REUTERS.
Southampton could push on with Issa Kabore deal
Southampton have had a very difficult opening to the Championship season, facing big spenders Wrexham and relegated Ipswich Town, but have shown they are capable of competing at the top.
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With Stoke City, Watford and Portsmouth in the next three games, Will Still could push on to the top of the division, especially if they sign Issa Kabore before the end of the transfer window.
The former Luton Town loanee proved he can be a vital asset to a back-five side in the 2023/24 season, and could finally get back to his best football at Southampton.
Ryan Fraser started as the right-wing-back against Ipswich Town, but looked unnatural and uncomfortable, which he didn’t when playing as an attacking midfielder. The Scotsman could move forward if Kabore signs for the Saints and showcase his true ability.
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