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Transfer

Joakim Maehle: Southampton consider move for Genk defender

Joackim Maehle

Southampton are considering a renewed effort to sign Genk right-back Joakim Maehle in January.

The Saints tried to sign the 22-year-old in January 2019 but the Belgium club were not interested in selling during their Europa League campaign.

After they were knocked out in the last-32, Maehle subsequently admitted he was interested in moving to St Mary's, stating "it was a nice proposal from a big club in a big competition".

The Denmark international has continued to impress for Genk this year, making 22 appearances so far this season, and Crystal Palace - also understood to be in the market for a right-back next month - have been scouting him.

Marin Pongracic
Image: Red Bull Salzburg centre-back Marin Pongracic is a long-term Southampton target

But he has also since signed a new contract that takes him to the end of the 2022-23 season.

Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl is keen improve right across his back-line next month with his struggling team set for another relegation fight.

He is said to be open to another centre-back - with RB Salzburg centre-back Marin Pongracic a long-term target - as well as a new left-back and more power in midfield.

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The Saints go into the January window with the futures of Cedric Soares, Maya Yoshida and Shane Long uncertain due to their contracts expiring at the end of the campaign.

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