SOUTHAMPTON are hunting down Barcelona defender Junior Firpo to replace Ryan Bertrand, according to reports in Spain.
The former Chelsea left-back will become a free agent at the end of next month with Arsenal and Leicester tipped to offer a contract.
Ralph Hasenhuttl will therefore look to the market having recently shifted central defender Mohammed Salisu over to the flank in Bertrand’s absence.
ESPN report on Barcelona’s Firpo, 24, entering the Saints’ radar.
The Spaniard has played second fiddle to Jordi Alba since his £17million move from Real Betis two seasons ago.
And he is named among a number of fringe players who Barcelona want to sell as part of a summer overhaul.
Ousmane Dembele, Antoine Griezmann and Philippe Coutinho are also up for the chop.
Southampton are said to have already made first contact to gauge a move.
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But fierce competition is likely to come from Serie A, where a number of clubs are described as keen.
AC Milan attempted to sign Firpo on loan in January and the Rossoneri could offer Champions League if they come back in for his signature.
A busy summer could be in store for Southampton with a replacement potentially also needed for Danny Ings.
The striker has been linked with a surprise move to Manchester United or neighbours City, as an alternative to Harry Kane.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
