SOUTHAMPTON have joined Newcastle in the race to sign Goncalo Ramos from Benfica, according to reports.
The Saints are in need of a new striker following the departure of Armando Broja, who returned to Chelsea last month after spending a season on loan at St Mary’s.
And according to The Athletic, they have finally found the ideal replacement.
Southampton have identified 21-year-old Ramos as a top transfer target over the past few weeks, with Ralph Hasenhuttl eager to push the deal across the line.
Club chiefs reportedly held talks with Benfica over a proposed £25million move last week after The Eagles’ Champions League qualifying clash with Midtjylland.
Should the two clubs come to an agreement over a deal, Ramos will become Southampton’s record signing, surpassing the £20m fee The Saints paid to sign Danny Ings from Liverpool in 2019.
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However, Hasenhuttl’s side face stiff competition from Premier League rivals Newcastle for his signature.
The Magpies are known to be interested in signing the Portugal international, but they have not yet submitted a bid.
Ramos, who joined Benfica at the age of 12, burst onto the scene when he made his senior debut last year.
He has since scored 19 goals and assisted seven in 64 appearances for the Primeira Liga side.
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The young star has also amounted an incredible total of 14 goals in just 18 games for Portugal’s U21s.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
