The prospect of a return to Southampton for former striker Danny Ings has garnered interest from the club, but the West Ham player appears unenthusiastic about dropping down to the Championship, as reported by The Athletic. Despite having been a peripheral figure at West Ham, with just one Premier League start under David Moyes this season and no goals to his name, Ings is reluctant to consider a move back to Southampton and has expressed his desire to continue playing in the Premier League. Wolves have emerged as a potential destination, expressing interest in acquiring Ings on loan from West Ham.
During his previous stint at Southampton, Ings showcased his goal-scoring prowess with 46 goals in 100 appearances, but a return to the south coast seems improbable for the striker who is aiming to compete at the top-flight level. Southampton’s pursuit of Ings reflects the club’s ambition, but the player’s Premier League aspirations may lead him elsewhere.
Meanwhile, Southampton manager Russell Martin has addressed the possibility of a permanent deal for Newcastle United loanee Ryan Fraser. Fraser, who joined Southampton on loan from Newcastle in the summer transfer window, has made a notable impact, contributing six goals and two assists in 23 appearances across all competitions. Although Fraser’s desire to stay at Southampton is apparent, Martin acknowledges the challenges associated with securing a permanent deal this month due to financial considerations and timing. Despite expressing a preference for a permanent move, Martin conveys the likelihood of such a deal happening in January as “low.”
The manager emphasizes that while making the deal permanent this month might be challenging, there remains optimism for a potential move in the summer. The feasibility of a permanent transfer could hinge on Southampton’s promotion bid and financial capacity. Fraser, who does not feature in Eddie Howe’s plans at Newcastle, could be an attractive signing for Southampton if they secure promotion and have the financial means to make the move permanent. With a year left on his contract at Newcastle, a summer transfer would also benefit the Magpies by allowing them to receive a fee for Fraser and alleviate his wages from their books. Despite the current uncertainties, the prospect of a long-term agreement with Fraser appears promising, potentially materializing in the upcoming summer transfer window.
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