SAINTS have reportedly been knocked back with at least one offer for Lecce defensive midfielder Morten Hjulmand.

Hjulmand, 23, is a former Danish under-21 international and is said to be well-known to Sport Republic CEO and current temporary Saints recruiter Rasmus Ankersen.

Hjulmand joined then Serie B side Lecce for just over £150,000 from Austrian outfit FC Admira Wacker in January 2021 and helped lead his new employers to promotion and the league title.

The six-foot one-inch tall Dane captains the Yellow and Reds and is looking to land his first Denmark cap after a regularly involved youth career.

Sky Sports report that Saints are in early talks with the Italian club over a deal to sign Hjulmand, and have had at least one transfer offer knocked back.

However, local Lecce media also report that the club are unwilling to do business in January and would prefer to make Saints wait until the end of the campaign.

It is likely Saints would envisage a midfield of Romeo Lavia and Hjulmand giving captain James Ward-Prowse freedom to continue his advanced 10 role. 

Lecce are 14th and 11 points clear of the relegation zone in Serie A after 18 matches played and look to fully secure their safety in the top flight again.

A message from the Editor

Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.

Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.

You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.