Heidenheim ready to discuss €8m Leo Scienza sale with Southampton | OneFootball

Kicker is currently confirming a Fabrizio Romano report regarding Southampton’s interest in FC Heidenheim attacker Leo Scienza. It appears as if the Saints stand a decent chance of acquiring the Bundesliga professional after all. The only potential stumbling block concerns Heidenheim’s transfer fee demands, which Kicker claims are in the €8m to €9m range.

Scienza has been linked with a move away from the Albogeners for much of the summer. It nevertheless appeared as if neither player (who struggled in his first German top flight campaign last year) nor club were keen on a move. It was such that Southampton’s previously reported interest in the 26-year-old was given a rather cool reception. Few expected Heidenheim to indulge.

Scienza turned in a very impressive FCH training camp and has already proved an immensely important part of Frank Schmidt’s team this year. As Heidenheim’s primary set-piece taker, the Brazilian-Luxemburger has already scored two goals from dead balls. Scienza has netted a total of three goals for his team in one cup and one league match.

Matters have nevertheless shifted now that Heidenheim have acquired another player with a proven track record as a set piece taker. FCH CEO Holger Sanwald was sure to emphasize his new signing’s set piece prowess and skill at crossing in from the left (where Scienza plays) when welcoming Köln’s Leart Paçarada to the club earlier today.

GGFN | Peter Weis