Five to step in for Morgan Schneiderlin at Southampton

Rumours abound that Southampton midfield shield Morgan Schneiderlin is close to completing a switch away from St Mary’s, with the Frenchman looking increasingly likely to land at one of Arsenal (25/1 with Coral to win the Champions League) or Manchester United (20/1) this summer.

Reports suggest Saints coach Ronald Koeman is readying a replacement, but who could the Dutchman convince to arrive on the south coast to cover the loss of Schneiderlin’s skill-set? Here are five potential signings for Southampton…

Koeman could face significant competition for the string-puller, with Crystal Palace and West Ham United just two of the clubs reportedly keen to capture the experienced former Newcastle United schemer.

Jordy Clasie (Feyenoord)
Netherlands international Clasie is tipped as being top of former Feyenoord boss Koeman’s list, for a mooted fee of £13m, and the Dutchman would be wise to reunite with the talented Clockwork Orange orchestrator.

Conductor Clasie seems ready to move on to the next level is his career and, able to contribute at both ends of the pitch, the midfielder’s mobility, tenacity and ability to pick out a defence-splitting pass should see him suit the Premier League to a tee.

A potential bargain buy at around £7m, the powerful midfielder, still just 25, was an inspiration for Lille last term, and could man the south coast club’s engine-room for many campaigns to come.