Hasenhuttl’s Southampton spell would take a turn if he lands this 28-year-old attacking monster in January

Why Southampton should go all out to sign Yacine Brahimi in January

According to a report from the Daily Mail, Premier League trio Everton, West Ham and Newcastle United are eyeing a move for FC Porto star Yacine Brahimi on a free transfer next summer.

Yacine Brahimi, 28, is out of contract at Porto in the summer of 2019, meaning he is eligible to speak to foreign sides and sign a pre-contract agreement in January.

The Algerian playmaker, who helped Porto win the title and the Portuguese Super Cup last season, has scored thrice in 12 Primeira League appearances so far this term. Keeping Brahimi’s form and availability on a bargain deal in mind, Southampton must enter the race for his signature.

Southampton began life under new manager Ralph Hasenhuttl with a 1-0 Premier League defeat at fellow strugglers Cardiff City on Saturday. It was far from the ideal beginning for Hasenhuttl and although he had very little time to work with his players, he was not afraid to change the team’s shape and ring the changes against Cardiff.

While Southampton’s defence has been a big flop this season, there are also a lot of concerns in the forward areas.

A lack of firepower has been a problem all season for the Saints and Hasenhuttl should address that in the transfer window. And the Austrian manager would do well to lure Yacine Brahimi away to St. Mary’s in January.

Brahimi is a winger by trade but can also play as a no.10 or in the hole behind the striker. He is an exceptionally technically-gifted player, blessed with explosive pace, neat footwork and an eye for goal. The Algerian is a brilliant dribbler of the ball, has an eye for a pass, and would provide Hasenhuttl with an entirely different option in the final third.

He is an agile player who can test defences with his sharp movement and incisive passing. Brahimi has the ability to pick out a pass and rarely gets knocked off the ball due to his stout frame.

His decision making in the final third and shooting accuracy from distance are good but it is his blistering pace and movement that make him an asset for any side.

All in all, Brahimi can be an exciting addition to Southampton, a club that could certainly use someone like him in their attacking department. His ability to use the ball with flair, technique, speed, agility and an eye for goal would make him perfect for Hasenhuttl’s style of play at St. Mary’s.

Read more: A gamble that could be beneficial? Southampton must take a risk and sign this 35-year-old defender in January

Hence, someone like Brahimi can bring in a lot of quality to Southampton and Hasenhuttl can look to avoid relegation with the Algerian ace in the squad.