“One to watch..”: Journo drops Southampton transfer claim that supporters will love - opinion

One of Southampton’s top assets could be staying at St Mary’s for a while longer… 

According to The Sun journalist Tom Barclay, Ralph Hasenhuttl remains steadfast in his stance on the full-back.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, he claimed: “Kyle Walker-Peters is going to be an interesting one. I think £40million sounds about right, from the last time I was checking this out.

“They don’t want to let him go, but it is one to watch on that front, I think.”

Walker-Peters has impressed hugely for the Saints since his move from Tottenham Hotspur back in 2020. He has featured an impressive 72 times in the league, quickly becoming one of Hasenhuttl’s most important assets.

It will be a welcome sight for supporters to see the club issue a hands-off warning to any potential suitors, as they look to once again enjoy a season free from a relegation battle.

Last season he featured 32 times, and despite only registering three goal contributions, he was still integral in their comfortable 15th-placed finish.

His average SofaScore rating of 6.85 is also indicative of a reliable performer for the south coast side. His reliability was showcased through his versatility, as he deputised at both right and left-back throughout the season.

Walker-Peters’ stats on FBref paints the picture of a progressive full-back however, as he sits in the top 4% for progressive carries and the top 6% for dribbles completed.

His manager has been vocal in his praise for the defender, and revealed the following to the Southern Daily Echo: “I think you see a player now who is very confident with the ball but also against the ball with clear habits.

“But we worked hard with him, we showed him immediately and he is a quick learner. That’s always good, always helpful if