Cedric Soares is a smart signing for Arsenal (Getty Images)
Cedric Soares joins Manolo Gabbiadini, Wesley Hoedt and Steven Davies in leaving Southampton during this transfer window. Inter Milan has signed the Portuguese international on loan for €500,000 with an option to buy the right-back in the summer for €11million. (CalcioMercato)
With the emergence of young Yan Valery and possible additions in January, Southampton should look to cash in on the 27-year-old right-back. The Saints have looked good under new boss Ralph Hasenhuttl and the former RB Leipzig manager could dip into the market if he feels that they need to replace Cedric. Here are five potential upgrades that the Saints boss should look at:
Played under Hasenhuttl for Leipzig and would be a brilliant replacement for Cedric Soares. The German’s versatility will come in as a bonus as he plays both on the right as well as on the left. Klostermann, with his tendency to arrive late at the far post, adds an attacking dimension to Southampton.
Saints should try and bring him in. Standing at 6ft 2in, the 22-year-old isn’t the one to shy away from a tackle and would fit in easily in the Premier League.
The 22-year-old Hertha Berlin right-back has shown real promise this season and will fit in nicely suit countryman Hasenhuttl’s team. Lazaro is quick, decent with crosses and has a jackhammer of a right foot. The Austrian has played every minute of his 19 starts this season and it would take a lot of effort to bring him to the English south coast.
The 25-year-old Belgian is severely underrated and could reach new heights under Hasenhuttl. Currently playing for Serie A side Atalanta, the former Genk man can play in central defence as well as on the right wing.
His versatility opens up new options for the Saints boss as he can accommodate him in the same team as Yan Valery.
The Celta Vigo man will bring in loads of experience with over 200 appearances in the La Liga and a brilliant footballing mind. With a career average of three clearances and 2.4 interceptions per game, the Spaniard will be a solid replacement for Cedric. The 27-year-old has been a mainstay on Celta’s right-hand side for over five seasons now and would be a very good signing.
The 27-year-old plays second fiddle Elseid Hysaj at Napoli. With just nine starts this season, the former Lille man could be persuaded by the Saints, who could offer him some regular playing time. The Frenchman provided six assists for Lille last season before Napoli snapped him up. With Hysaj being Ancelotti’s undisputed number one, Malcuit should try his luck in the Premier League.
