‘Starting to take shape’ - Dan Sheldon shares one major priority for Hasenhuttl at Southampton

Signing a central defender is understood to be one of Southampton’s main priorities heading into the summer transfer window, as revealed by The Athletic‘s David Ornstein and relayed by Dan Sheldon via Twitter.

The Saints have maintained a reasonably balanced record so far this season. Out of their 29 top-flight matches so far, they have won eight, drawn 11 and lost ten.

Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side have netted 36 goals this term, whereas defensively they have the eighth-worst goal concession record in the Premier League, being breached 45 times.

Only recently has conceding become a more prominent issue for Southampton. In their last four games in all competitions, they have let in 12 goals, with just three scored at the other end – and three of those matches were at St Mary’s.

Ornstein reported for The Athletic that centre-back is viewed as a transfer priority during the summer for Hasenhuttl at Southampton.

Sheldon duly shared a link to his colleague’s article via Twitter, with an added caption of: “Southampton’s plans for the summer transfer window are starting to take shape. Signing a central defender is thought to be one of their priorities.”

The Athletic claimed that, whilst Southampton are keen on signing a new centre-back, it could mean that one of their current options may need to depart in order to make room for any incoming in that position.

The central defenders currently at Hasenhuttl’s disposal are Mohammed Salisu, Jan Bednarek, Jack Stephens and Lyanco. Furthermore, the Saints also have Dynel Simeu, who joined from Chelsea last summer, and his loan deal with Carlisle United is set to expire at the end of May.

Therefore, if Hasenhuttl does choose to bring someone in to strengthen that position, it is likely that