Southampton’s Lallana and Shaw set for Northwest moves

The Premier League campaign is now over, and Southampton already look as if they will struggle to keep their star players this summer, with Adam Lallana and Luke Shaw the subjects of reported bids from Liverpool and Manchester United respectively.

Saints club chairman Ralph Krueger has conceded that there will be much interest. “The reason people look at our players is because the club does an excellent job developing them. It should be difficult here every summer,” the former Germany ice hockey international said.

“It is really important that people respect that there will be conversations going on, beginning on Monday, with clubs. That is part of the business.”

It has already been confirmed that the Merseyside club have made an offer for midfielder Lallana. Although the price has not been disclosed, it is thought to be in the region of £20m.

With 10 goals and six assists in all competitions this season, and playing a big part in Southampton’s eighth place finish, the 26-year-old has attracted interest form across the league. The Red Devils have also been rumoured to have an interest, but Brendan Rodgers has made the first move.

Lallana, before possibly his final game for the club against Man Utd, said: “I’m ambitious. I want to one day play in the Champions League.”

The Red Devils, meanwhile, have reportedly offered £27m for his current teammate and fellow England international Shaw. With the 18-year-old’s stock set to rise higher and higher with a World Cup call-up imminent, following the retirement of Ashley Cole, United hope to seal a deal pre-tournament.

While the Manchester club have said nothing on the transfer matter, it has been widely rumoured that a bid has been put in place. Current left back Patrice Evra is out of contrast in the summer and, with a deal yet to be offered to the Frenchman, Chelsea fan Shaw would be an excellent replacement.

Both Saints players are to make the plane to Brazil in the World Cup, but face a tough Group D, which features Uruguay, Italy and Costa Rica. The Three Lions are third-favourites to top the pool at 2/1 and qualify to the knockout round at 8/15.