Why Southampton have made a clever move to complete the signing of £16m forward

Why Southampton have made a clever move to sign Mohamed Elyounoussi

Southampton have signed attacking midfielder Mohamed Elyounoussi from FC Basel for a fee in the region of £16m. The Norway international has agreed on a five-year deal with the South Coast club. It was a reactionary transfer move by Saints following the departure of Dusan Tadic to Ajax.

Elyounoussi is Southampton’s second signing of the summer after they captured Stuart Armstrong from Celtic. The now-former Basel forward does fit the bill for Mark Hughes as he can play across several positions. In fact, his presence will provide the Saints with flexibility and versatility next season.

Let us scout the player a bit and conclude as to why he might become the next Southampton star.

Scouting Mohamed Elyounoussi

Elyounoussi is a hard-working player who often gives his all on the pitch. He can press the ball, tackle and create chances for the team. He had a terrific season in Switzerland with Basel, scoring 11 goals and providing 15 assists in 33 appearances. In addition to that, he took part in 8 Champions League games, netting 2 goals and supplying 1 assist.

The 23-year-old Norwegian is a fantastic dribbler of the ball and can go past defenders to create numerous goalscoring chances. The winger also has the propensity to be lethal in front of the goal.

He possesses a fabulous work ethic and can defend when required. Elyounoussi also covers for his slight lack of physicality by exhibiting tenacity and willingness to work hard at every point of time.

No wonder Arsenal, Huddersfield and Leicester City were interested in the player. Southampton should be grateful to have beaten them to complete this deal and now, they must work towards helping him reach his true potential next season.

Read More: Why Southampton would do a smart job by signing 5-goal Celtic star this summer

Conclusion

We have seen Southampton do great business in the past. They have one of the best academies in England and scouting new players continues to be their forte. Elyounoussi is no different and the 23-year-old will only make their team better.

Personally, this move will also help the player perform at the highest level and probably get a bigger move in the near future.