Southampton are reportedly close to completing the signing of Norwich City winger Nathan Redmond, for a transfer fee believed to be in the region of £11million pounds. The talented 22-year-old winger, who spent 11 years (three senior) at Birmingham City before a switch to the Canaries followed swiftly at the start of the 2013 summer transfer window.
Since then, he has continued to progress at a steady rate and has established himself as an integral figure in Alex Neil's side over the past two seasons. Following their underachieving campaign in the Premier League this past term, it comes as no surprise that other top flight clubs had been linked with a move for Redmond, including newly-promoted side Middlesbrough as well as Stoke City and West Ham to name just a few.
Norwich reluctant but should understand Redmond departure
His current contract expires in June 2017, so Norwich will be keen to cash in on him now whilst they can still command a respectable figure for his services - their prime focus will be to return to the top division at the first time of asing, like they did when relegated in the 2013/14 campaign. With 6 goals and two assists, as well as creating 45 chances throughout the season with a team struggling in the goal department, Redmond represents an exciting acquisition that the Saints could potentially look forward to, if the deal does go through.
Deal would represent more shrewd business completed by Saints
It would be a similar fee to the one they paid for Sadio Mané two summers ago, and with recent reports suggesting Liverpool are prepared to pay £30m for the Senegalese forward, Redmond could be the ideal replacement if he does opt to depart this summer.
Scouts were also impressed with Redmond's performances in the Toulon Tournament at the end of May, where the England under-21 side prevailed with the trophy. If he's able to continue progressing at this rate, it would come as no surprise for the former Birmingham man to be included in Roy Hodgson's senior squad plans within the next twelve months.
