Serie A struggles might play into Southampton’s hands this summer: View | OneFootball

Matías Soulé emerged as a potential transfer target for Southampton earlier this season.

The Saints were linked with a move for the winger, who is currently on loan at Serie A side Frosinone.

The Argentine had an electric first half of the season, but could leave parent club Juventus in the summer in order for the Italian giants to raise funds.

He contributed eight goals and one assist in his first 17 league appearances for the mid-table side (all stats from Fbref).

This led to him gaining transfer attention in January, but he opted to remain with his loan side until the end of the campaign.

A disappointing 2024 for Matías Soulé

However, since turning down a potential move in the winter market, he has contributed just two goals and two assists from 14 appearances in the top flight.

It has been a more difficult second half of the season, as he has struggled to maintain his high level of consistent performances.

This could have an impact on both his transfer value this summer, as well as the number of clubs seriously interested in signing him.

A run of poor form could lower his value and put certain teams off pulling the trigger on pursuing a move.

The likes of Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace have all been linked with an interest in the forward.

That is stiff competition for Southampton, especially as they could yet remain in the Championship for another year.

However, perhaps these struggles in the second half of the season could open the door for the Hampshire outfit.

His inconsistency could lead to scepticism of his readiness to step up for a side competing at the top end of the Premier League like Spurs and Newcastle.

It’s also been reported that Juve are seeking up to €20 (£17.1) million for the 21-year-old.

But there may now be some leeway in this figure if interest in his services drops off the back of his poor performances of late.

Carlos Alcaraz factor can help Southampton’s Soulé interest

Southampton could also have an edge over their English football rivals this summer due to Carlos Alcaraz.

The playmaker is currently on loan at Juve until the end of the campaign, with the Old Lady has an option to buy clause worth €49.5 (£42.3) million.

However, it’s been claimed that the Serie A side has no interest in paying that kind of fee, even though they would prefer to keep hold of Alcaraz longer-term.

Perhaps some kind of arrangement could be found so that Soulé and Alcaraz can trade clubs in a way that’s financially viable for all parties.

Promotion to the Premier League still may be needed in order to convince the Juve starlet of a move to England, but the Saints are still in the mix for a place back in the top flight.

If Russell Martin’s side can get over the line, then they should consider themselves in a good place to sign a player that is still quite talented despite the dip in form.

Given his potential, the Saints shouldn’t be put off by his disappointing second half of the campaign, even if it may impact the decision-making of top end Premier League sides. They need transfers to provide them with the stepping stone to the next level; running before they can walk will not be the right approach.