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Che Adams
Birmingham City’s Che Adams has scored 14 goals in the Championship this season. Photograph: Nigel French/PA
Birmingham City’s Che Adams has scored 14 goals in the Championship this season. Photograph: Nigel French/PA

Transfer roundup: Southampton target Birmingham’s Che Adams

This article is more than 5 years old

Ralph Hasenhüttl says Charlie Austin can leave
Álvaro Morata completes loan move to Atlético Madrid

Charlie Austin could leave in the final days of the January transfer window as Southampton look at a move for Birmingham’s Che Adams.

Saints manager Ralph Hasenhüttl has let a number of big-name players go this month and experienced striker Austin could be next. It is undertood the 29-year-old is subject of interest from Premier League and Championship clubs, while Galatasaray have also been linked to the player.

With Danny Ings fit again and Nathan Redmond often deployed as a forward, Hassenhüttl said he was content with his options: “I think we have a lot for two positions, so it can be a possibility that he’s leaving. But if not then I’m happy he’s here and helps us to chase our targets that we have. I think it’s sometimes the point that you as a club can’t give any player what he expects us to give him. So, in this situation we are trying to find a win-win situation for both sides. He’s a fantastic striker, a striker who can score for every team I think.”

However, the club are now considering Birmingham’s Adams. The 22-year-old joined City from Sheffield United in 2016 and has scored 14 goals in all competitions this season. Hasenhüttl insists any new recruits this month will be young players and only brought in “if the baggage 100% fits”. “A few players are interesting for us, for our way. I can guarantee to you it’s normally a younger player, but the package must be perfect.

“We won’t take any financial risk. We have created a bit of space where we can bring a new player in. If we do so it’s only if the baggage 100% fits us.

“If not, then we won’t do anything. If we are 100% sure that a guy that will help us, then we will do it. You can be sure that we have our eyes open, but if we don’t sign a player in this window maybe we’ll do it in the summer. To do it now can also be a possibility.”

While there is interest in Adams, Saints look light at right-back after the departure of Cédric Soares on loan to Internazionale with a view to a permanent deal. Wesley Hoedt, Steven Davis and Manolo Gabbiadini have also left St Mary’s this month.

Meanwhile, Atlético Madrid have confirmed the loan signing of Álvaro Morata from Chelsea until the end of next season.

The 26-year-old has completed the deal with Atlético after passing a medical in the Spanish capital on Sunday. “I’m very happy and proud to be here. I can’t wait to start training, meet my new teammates and play,” he said.

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