Southampton table bid for Argentina international and consider move for 29 goal striker

Last summer saw Southampton smash their record transfer by signing Uruguay international Gaston Ramirez for a sum of around £13m, which was a shock to some. However, after a positive season for the club, not so much individually, new Saints boss is looking to spend big this summer to really take the club forward in their second season back in the Premier League.

The Argentine boss acted quickly to secure the £8.5m signing of Lyon defender Dejan Lovren last week, and according to the Mirror they are ready to splash another £7.6m to gain the services of Valencia midfielder Ever Banega.

They are also suggesting that Celtic forward Gary Hooper is being considered as a partner for current frontman Rickie Lambert, but the Scottish club have rejected numerous offers from England over the last year or so, so a deal of £8m+ would be necessary.

Both would provide options going forward for the South Coast club in terms of ability and experience. Bengega, 24, has won 17 caps for Argentina and has over 100 appearances under his La Liga belt. He is renowned for his technical ability, eye for a pass and the typical Argentine flair, and was close to a move to Everton in 2009 before the deal fell through due to visa problems.

Hooper struck 29 goals in 43 games in all competitions last season including 19 times in the SPL and is supposedly looking for a move to England to boost his international chances.