Just when things were starting to make sense and everyone was agreeing about Manolo Gabbiadini’s potential transfer to Southampton, Sunderland decide to try and wriggle their way in.
Despite this, you would expect Southampton, who were reported to be close to an agreement with Napoli for Gabbiadini after placing a €16m + €4m bid, to remain the favourites due to their league position and successful cup run, even if Sunderland are said to be willing to match the Saints’ bid for the Italian goalscorer.
The Black Cats have seen far too many of their players injured this season, with David Moyes currently have to deal with seven injuries, with an extra four players unavailable due to international duties or suspensions.
Down their end, Southampton are trying to replace the injured Charlie Austin, whose shoulder injury just over a month ago is expected to keep him out until at least the second half of February, and that’s being highly optimistic.
