Why Pochettino wanted Barrada (Video)

When a new manager is appointed at any club during a transfer window, the rumour mill effectively goes into overdrive. A number of former players that worked under the manager in questions are linked with a move to his new team and Mauricio Pochettino with Southampton was no different.

Following the Argentine's somewhat controversial appointment at the St. Mary's Stadium last month, the likes of Philippe Coutinho and Joan Verdu were supposed targets for the south coast club as they look to secure their Premier League safety.

However, once the deadline passed many a Saints were to be left perplexed as to a lack of investment for the remainder of the season. Yet, that isn't to say Pochettino didn't attempt to bring in fresh faces, or so we're led to believe.

Reports today suggest that the club moved to sign Getafe midfielder Abdelaziz Barrada before the transfer window slammed for what would have been a club record £15.25m. A move for the Morocco international would've eclipsed the the £12m spent on Ramirez in the summer and significantly strengthened Saints in their bid to stave off relegation.

While the club may've failed in their bid to sign the 23-year-old, speculation suggests they will return in the summer to pursue their interest in the powerful France-born midfielder, with his ability in the middle of the pitch exactly what Saints could utilise in the business end of the campaign. 

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