Reporter: Southampton now ‘interested’ in move for Premier League veteran dubbed ‘phenomenal’

According to one journalist, Southampton are one of three Premier League sides interested in signing Manchester United defender Phil Jones.

Whilst the 30-year-old has made 228 appearances for Man United and has amassed 203 caps in the English top-flight (via Transfermarkt), the centre-back has found himself out of the Red Devils’ side in recent years.

The former England international played just 161 minutes of Premier League football all season, adding a further half-an-hour in the FA Cup to his first-team tally.

With injury and Covid-19 absences for Harry Maguire, Eric Bailly and Victor Lindelof, Jones had to step up and play alongside Raphael Varane as United faced Wolves in January.

After a returning from his 709-day absence, teammate Luke Shaw hailed the defender’s performance, claiming that he was ‘phenomenal’ at the back.

After returning from his devastating injury which he suffered back in 2020, rumours surrounding Jones’ future have now begun to emerge.

Taking to Twitter, a reporter for Italian newspaper Calcio in Pillole has shared news of a potential move away from Old Trafford for the 30-year-old, claiming:

“EXCL Fulham, Southampton and Leeds are interested in Manchester United’s English defender Phil Jones.”

With his United career having stagnated due to various reasons, a move away to another top-flight side could prove to be a great decision for Jones.

Saints could utilise an experienced defender in their backline alongside Mohammed Salisu, with the youngster having found his feet in the league after making 34 appearances this season.

With Ralph Hasenhuttl viewing the signing of a centre-back as a priority this summer, Jones could be a great addition to Southampton’s squad if he can stay fit, with United