Southampton reportedly ‘agree deal’ to sign Sekou Mara from Bordeaux

Southampton have agreed a deal in principle to sign young striker Sekou Mara from Bordeaux, according to the French club.

The transfer is subject to agreeing personal terms and a medical, the former Ligue 1 side added.

Bordeaux made the announcement on social media. There have been no statements from Southampton about the transfer.

19-year-old Mara scored six goals for Bordeaux last season before being relegated from the French top flight, finishing bottom of Ligue 1.

Due to financial issues, Bordeaux look set to be plying their trade in France’s third tier of football, the Championnat de France National. At the time of writing, Bordeaux are appealing that decision that would see them drop two division over the space of one summer.

In total, the France Under-21 striker - who has also represented his country at U16, U17 and U20 level - has scored seven goals in 35 league games for Les Girondins.

Mara has been linked to a string of Premier League clubs of late, including Newcastle United, Leeds United, and Aston Villa.

Southampton are in dire need of some attacking reinforcements and Mara would fit the bill for Saints’ policy of bringing in young players while plugging some gaps at the top end of the pitch.

If Mara does sign for Southampton, he would be Saints’ sixth signing of the summer transfer window, following the arrivals of Joe Aribo, Romeo Lavia, Armel Bella-Kotchap, Mateusz Lis and Gavin Bazunu.