Southampton Transfers: 10 Players To Buy This Summer

6. Abdoulaye Ba

Arguably no signing made in summer 2013 has made more impact than the arrival of former Lyon centre back Dejan Lovren in Southampton. With Lovren's arrival, Southampton's previously leaky defence became one of the more reliable back lines in the league. His quality not only helped alone, but inspired defensive partner Jose Fonte to a higher level. Unfortunately, when Lovren has been unavailable Saints have looked horribly ill equipped at the back, with Jos Hooiveld continually proving a player that is too slow and too lacking in judgment to perform at this level. At least one more centre back is an absolute requirement this summer. 6 foot 6 inch Senegalese international Abdoulaye Ba can be a commanding presence at the heart of defence, but is currently struggling to establish himself ahead of consistent first choice Maicon at club FC Porto. Last summer Southampton and Pochettino, along with Aston Villa, were rumoured to be chasing Ba as the big defender looked for more first team football. In January, Saints scouts were reported as looking at him again, while the defender is on loan at Vitoria Guimaraes. Valued at £2.5 million, the 23 year old is another promising player who would had depth to a squad that really needs it.