Southampton: Daily round-up

Southampton — again — find themselves in the middle of transfer news with reports on ESPN and from the Times’ Duncan Castles suggesting skipper Jose Fonte might very well be on the move following an impressive display at EURO 2016 in France.

Last season, Fonte signed a new deal that would keep him on the south coast through 2018, and Southampton has again offered a new contract to reflect his importance to the club. They will have to fight off interest from Manchester United, who are keen to bring in an experienced player for their back line. (The Mirror)

But his departure, due to a supposed ‘gentleman's agreement’, might be just hot air:

Southampton kicked off the 2016-17 Premier League campaign with a come from behind draw against Watford, overcoming a lacklustre first half. Despite an inspired performance from summer signing Nathan Redmond, Nick Szczepanik of the Sunday Express believes Saints could be in for a rude awakening when they visit Old Trafford on Friday.

Arsenal suffered an opening night defeat to Liverpool on Sunday and its relevance to Southampton? Five of the seven goals scored were by former Saints players, including Sadio Mane who scored on his Liverpool debut following his £34m Mersey move in June.

Southampton Under-23s meanwhile made a terrific start to the Premier League 2, beating Liverpool 4-1 at Prenton Park. The side featured the likes of Jake Hesketh, 20, who made his debut against United in December 2014, and striker Olufela Olomola, 18. (saintsfc.co.uk)

Did you see?

Nathan Redmond was ‘buzzin’ to have scored on his Southampton debut, with his goal earning his new club a point.

Hesketh had a superb finish from distance in the 17th minute that doubled the lead against Liverpool Under-23s.

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