Southampton transfer not quite as close as suggested – Saints want permanent exit rather than loan

Wesley Hoedt will almost certainly leave Southampton this summer, with the Saints pushing for a permanent move this time around.

The defender has previously spoken about wanting to play in a top league again, having been at Royal Antwerp on loan last season, yet the interest he expected to come forward clearly hasn’t materialised.

Given his bitter and disparaging remarks about Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhüttl, having any meaningful role at the Saints is unlikely, so it’s been a case of finding a club to take the 26 year old.

Monday’s edition of HLN insists English claims of a move to Anderlecht being close are premature. Contact has been made, but there’s no agreement at this stage.

That’s because Southampton are looking for a permanent transfer and Anderlecht would prefer a loan. Hoedt is not the only option the Belgian club are considering, which suggests this one is some distance from being a done deal.

The defender has a contract with Southampton lasting until June 2022.