Why Southampton must beat West Ham to the signing of this 25-year-old Brazilian speed dribbler

According to reports, Lazio ace Felipe Anderson has attracted interest from Southampton, West Ham and Leicester City.

Anderson, 25, played very little this past season for Lazio after returning from a long injury layoff in December. However, he still managed to score 4 goals and supply a further 7 assists in 21 Serie A appearances. Since signing from Santos in 2013, Anderson has proved to be a massive hit for Lazio.

West Ham, under new manager Manuel Pellegrini, must do everything possible to put their last two poor seasons behind them. Pellegrini, who has tasted Premier League success with Manchester City, needs to clear out the deadwood and bring fresh players into his squad to challenge for a top-half finish next term.

Similarly, Southampton are in dire need of inspiration after narrowly escaping relegation in the recently concluded season. The Saints looked certain for the drop but Mark Hughes’ appointment at the right time changed the whole scenario.

However, Hughes and Southampton would need a top-class signing to help change the mood at St.Mary’s this summer, and Lazio’s Anderson could be an exciting addition for them.

Defensive struggles aside, Southampton failed to score goals on a consistent basis this past season. At one point of time, the club became completely dependent on Charlie Austin’s goals and while the forward delivered, an injury sidelined him for few weeks and suddenly the Saints were left to feed on scraps. So, bolstering the attacking options remains as important as the strengthening of the defence.

Anderson’s 8 goals and 10 assists in all competitions during 2017/18 campaign saw him prove himself again as a real attacking gem in the Serie A. Since joining Lazio back in 2013, the Brazilian has performed consistently every season and it has turned him into a highly sought-after player.

At 25, the Brazilian is still young and could yet flourish into a really accomplished first-team player for the Saints. He has blistering pace, guile and vision that would help Southampton unlock the toughest of defences in the league. Due to his versatility, Anderson, who is a wide player by trade, can play anywhere across the attack.

Using his ability, skill and devastating pace, the Brazilian could help Southampton in the attacking third next season. He possesses excellent technical ability and has a wonderful range of passing. Also, Anderson’s work-ethic is brilliant, which would suit Hughes’ style of play as the former Stoke boss expects his players to work their socks off, with and without the ball.

West Ham are also interested in the Lazio ace but Southampton must make sure they bag the signing of Anderson. The Saints are in desperate need of attacking flair and creativity next season and Anderson could be the perfect player to provide it to them.