One of the recurring Southampton stories of the summer was an alleged interest in Atlético Madrid’s Luciano Vietto.
Failing to impress Diego Simeone, the Argentinian forward was touted to potentially exit the Wanda Metropolitano on loan, although the 23-year-old later confirmed it was actually meant to be on a full transfer as the La Liga club had no interest in him leaving temporarily.
Eventually staying, Vietto has had to make do with a mixture of cup starts and sub appearances, but his lack of goals is troubling Atlético Madrid, who could be once again prepared to let him go if the right offer comes along.
AS in Spain claim six players, including the former Argentina U20 international, have a month and a half to impress Diego Simeone, and the Southampton target doesn’t really stand a chance with his form and lack of opportunities.
It’s been over a month since he’s played for Atlético, and it’s getting to the stage where even a loan with a view to buy to the Saints, where Mauricio Pellegrino could turn his season around, might be considered.
With the Premier League side struggling to find the back of the net this season, a reinvigorated Vietto could come in handy, but therein lies the issue.
The last thing Southampton need is another player short of form up top, and a gamble might not be the best idea in January.
