Saints go double Dutch? Koeman linked with Janmaat and Krul captures

Southampton, odds-on at 8/13 with Coral for a top six finish this term, are plotting a double raid on Newcastle United for Dutch defensive duo Daryl Janmaat and Tim Krul, according to tabloid reports.

The Magpies’ business model under Mike Ashley is to buy foreign talent, develop it further and sell on for a premium. Goalkeeper Krul, 27, has been on the books at St James’ Park for a decade and has two more years left on his contract, but also linked with leaving Tyneside on several occasions.

Any Saints interest in the Netherlands international will be motivated by the long-term injury sustained by first-choice stopper Fraser Forster, who will miss anywhere between six and 12 months.

Veteran goalie Kelvin Davis is the only senior backup with real experience on the south coast club’s books presently, so signing cover is a clear priority.

Right back Janmaat, 25, meanwhile, played under Southampton boss Ronald Koeman at Feyenoord before making a £5m switch to Newcastle last summer. He has been one of the Magpies’ best performers in another underwhelming campaign for the Toon Army.

The Saints could come in for Janmaat because of contract rebel Nathaniel Clyne, who is inked with a £17m transfer to Manchester United. If moves materialise for his compatriots, Dutch boss Koeman will being getting proven performers for both club and country.

Krul, in particular, caught the eye with a sensational substitute appearance for Clockwork Orange under Louis van Gaal at the last World Cup in Brazil, coming on for a penalty shoot-out against Costa Rica in the quarter-finals.

Janmaat was also part of the Netherlands national squad that finished third in 2014, and if sold would be the second right back cashed in on by the Magpies in successive summers after France counterpart Mathieu Debuchy joined Arsenal.

Southampton’s top four chances look remote at 50/1, but they may be Europe regardless should the Gunners win the FA Cup, as UEFA have changed the rules on losing finalists getting a place in continental competitions.