Southampton opinion: Why Southampton need to win the race for Daniel James
English news outlet Birmingham Live has reported that Southampton have joined the race for Swansea City starlet Daniel James. The young winger was heavily linked with a move to Leeds United in the January transfer window but nothing ever materialised (Wales Online).
The move would go on to collapse on the last day of the window, with issues from Swansea City. But while Leeds United are still interested in a move for the 21-year-old, it’s time for Southampton to use their power.
The Saints are in trouble at the moment, but if they keep their form moving forward, they have an excellent chance of surviving the season. Under Ralph Hasenhuttl, things have certainly changed and the club
Daniel James would be exactly what the club need next summer. An injection of pace and creativity in the final third is what the 21 year old could bring. But there are quite a few players around the world who can add that.
What sets James apart is his work-ethic and the fact that he is just 21 years old, playing regularly for the club. That is what the Saints need, with the likes of Mohamed Elyounoussi, Sofiane Boufal and Nathan Redmond performing sporadically.
While Josh Sims has stepped up, the young midfielder needs a back-up, with Redmond often playing as a second striker. That has been a feature under Hasenhuttl and while the 25-year-old has been effective, it has robbed Southampton of quality in other areas.
It showcases exactly where they need players and why Daniel James’ mere presence would help the Saints move up the table next season. At the moment, they are relatively safe and sit in 17th place with 33 points to their name.
This gives them a five point cushion over 18th place Cardiff City, with the Bluebirds still not mathematically relegated. Things could get worse for the club, but under Hasenhuttl they look a completely different team, with the former RB Leipzig coach getting the best out of them.
However, if the Saints are to repeat the task next season, they’ll need reinforcements and winning the race for Daniel James will help them do exactly that.
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Conclusion
Daniel James has shown this season that he deserves a move to the Premier League in the near future. A talented player, the 21-year-old would grow leaps and bounds at Southampton, and it’s a move that would be mutually beneficial.