Four free transfers Southampton should pursue this summer

This is the season of retained lists and farewell statements as players either opt to turn down a new deal or do not receive one.

The signing of the summer, Kylian Mbappe's Bosman transfer from PSG to Real Madrid, will be formally completed when his deal at the French giants officially concludes.

Saints made use of free transfers last season, adding full-back Ryan Manning and goalkeeper Joe Lumley.

They could look to repeat that trick as Russell Martin bids to add further quality to his squad ahead of their Premier League return.

The Daily Echo has already reported progress in the re-signing of Adam Lallana and Southampton's attempts to sign Ryan Fraser and Flynn Downes permanently.

Taylor Harwood-Bellis is also set to officially become a Southampton player after the obligation to buy clause in his loan was triggered following promotion.

We have taken a look at four players Southampton should look to sign on a free transfer this summer...

Callum O'Hare

It has been reported for some time that Saints hold an interest in signing Callum O'Hare from Coventry City.

The 26 year old attacker has been linked to a number of clubs as he approaches the end of his deal at the Sky Blues.

With Che Adams' future uncertain, Stuart Armstrong already departed and David Brooks' loan deal over, Saints need attacking reinforcements.

Creative players usually come at a premium, signing O'Hare could allow Southampton to recruit more than one player to fill their void.

The former England under-20 international netted six Championship goals and made three assists during the 2023/24 campaign.

It was in the FA Cup where O'Hare provided his greatest contribution - scoring four and notching one assist as they reached the semi-final.

Callum O'Hare scored against Manchester United in the FA Cup semi-final (Image: PA)

Juan Miranda

Left-back is another area where Southampton need to strengthen ahead of their Premier League return.

While Ryan Manning has provided attacking impetus, the defensive side of his game has been called into question.

A move for Real Betis defender Juan Miranda, 24, may be unrealistic given he has been linked to the likes of AC Milan previously.

The Barcelona academy graduate has 81 La Liga appearances to his name and has already made his debut for La Roja.

Juan Miranda playing against Manchester United for Real Betis (Image: PA)

Ben Johnson

Sticking with the theme of full-backs, Ben Johnson is another name who has been linked with Southampton over the past 12 months.

West Ham have confirmed that they have offered the 24 year old new terms after he made 14 Premier League appearances for the Hammers this season.

Johnson reportedly rejected a new deal at the London Stadium earlier this season and his lack of game time could influence his decision-making.

If Saints fail to keep a hold of Kyle Walker-Peters, who has been the subject of reported interest, a move for Johnson could be needed.

He would also be an upgrade on current back-up right-back James Bree, while his previous playing at left-back and centre-back would offer further defensive versatility. 

Ben Johnson has made over 100 appearances for West Ham (Image: PA)

Robert Skov

Versatile Danish wideman Robert Skov is set to depart German outfit Hoffenheim after helping them to a seventh-place finish in the Bundesliga.

At Die Kraichgauer, Skov mainly played as a left winger/wing-back, netting three goals and providing four assists.

Martin has favoured a three-centre-back system in recent games with Fraser asked to play on the left-hand side.

When compared with other full-backs in Europe's top five leagues, Skov ranks in the 91st percentile for shot-creating actions per 90 minutes.

His experience playing top-flight football and international pedigree would serve Southampton well as they look to retain their Premier League status for another season.

Robert Skov has seven goals in 14 appearances for Denmark (Image: PA)