Former Southampton manager Claude Puel has admitted that Slimani could leave Leicester City.
Southampton are one of four clubs wanting to sign Leicester City striker Islam Slimani, according to Sky Sports [live blog entry 12:00].
The others, Newcastle United, Watford and Besiktas, have already been linked with moves for Slimani, for whom it is claimed Leicester paid £28 million 18 months ago.
Southampton, however, are a seemingly new suitor, although their interest would come as no surprise given the recent struggles of strike pair Shane Long and Manolo Gabbiadini, in the absence of top scorer Charlie Austin.
According to Sky Sports, a source close to the player says Slimani has ‘nothing against anyone’ at Leicester, but needs to leave to increase his game time.
The 29-year-old has only started seven games this season, less than half of which have come under Claude Puel, the former Southampton manager.
Southampton could have the upper hand on rivals suitors, having recently recouped £75 million – before sell-on fee pay-outs – from the sale of Virgil van Dijk to Liverpool.
Besiktas, however, could offer Slimani Champions League football this season.