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Lee Hendrie has told FLW his verdict on Southampton's interest in Lewis O'Brien

Lee Hendrie believes that Lewis O’Brien would be a solid signing for Southampton this summer.

It was reported by Alan Nixon that the Saints are among the clubs eyeing a move for the Nottingham Forest midfielder.

However, they face competition from the likes of Birmingham City, as both sides eye deals to improve their first team squads this transfer window.

Will Still is now in charge at Southampton, and will be keen to bolster the side as he looks to guide the club to promotion straight back to the Premier League next season.

Lee Hendrie makes Lewis O’Brien to Southampton claim

Hendrie believes that O’Brien would be a solid signing for Southampton as he’s someone with the quality to compete at a high level in the Championship.

He’s claimed that the midfielder would be a good signing for any of the top clubs chasing promotion next season.

“I think any of the top clubs in the Championship know that Lewis O’Brien is capable of really being a top player at that level,” Hendrie exclusively told Football League World.

“I think Southampton will be pushing for promotion, and he’s had a taste of being in the Championship, I just think he’s a very solid addition.

“He has lots of quality as well, so I actually feel that would be a solid signing for Southampton.”

O’Brien spent last season on loan with LAFC and Swansea City, leading to him making 16 appearances in the Championship as the Welsh outfit earned an 11th place finish.

Southampton’s summer plans

Southampton are targeting promotion back to the Premier League next season, so could be active in the summer market.

The Saints have already sealed a deal for Joshua Quarshie from German side Hoffenheim.

Still will surely want to bolster the squad further ahead of the campaign getting underway in the first weekend of August.

O’Brien signing could add necessary depth

O’Brien was unable to prove himself as a Premier League calibre player at Nottingham Forest, so he shouldn’t be signed with a view to being a regular starter for Southampton.

Their goal is to compete consistently in the top flight again, so will need a team of players capable of playing at that level.

However, O’Brien could provide some necessary cover and depth in midfield for this season as they eye automatic promotion.

It remains to be seen who will be sold after suffering relegation, so added bodies may be needed for life back in the Championship.