Southampton and Newcastle United dragged into transfer chase, Benitez could hold advantage

 

Southampton and Newcastle United have been dragged into the chase for Sandro Ramirez, reports Spanish newspaper Sport. They join Tottenham, Liverpool, Everton, and Stoke City as English clubs linked with an interest in the player.

That’s not the only competition for Rafael Benitez and Claude Puel, Spanish clubs Villarreal, Atletico Madrid, and Sevilla are all keen on doing a deal. Not to mention the plans of Malaga, Sandro’s current club, to renew his contract and enjoy at least another season.

Newcastle and Southampton interest is no surprise, with both clubs expected to look for good value deals this summer. Sandro has a release clause of €6m, something Sport call ‘almost laughable’, so there’s a bargain to be had.

Southampton had previously been impressed by Malaga’s Juanmi, signing the then Spanish international in 2015. Junami’s St Mary’s nightmare led him to Real Sociedad, and it would be no surprise if that move put Sandro off signing for Southampton.

Rafael Benitez will feel he has an advanatge, having a big knowledge of Spanish football, clubs, and players within, and Newcastle United would need to utilise that fully.

Sandro has 6 goals in his last 6 games, hence the growing interest.