Saints join Reds in race for Barca star
Southampton have made contact with Barcelona over a deal for Liverpool target Cristian Tello, according to reports.
Southampton today confirmed that they would begin their search for a new manager after Ronald Koeman was unveiled as the new Everton boss.
However, Saints also appear to be forging on with their plans to upgrade their squad as well ahead of a Europa League group stage campaign.
According to Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, Southampton have approached Barca about the availability of Tello.
The Spanish forward broke into the Barcelona first team in 2012, but after amassing 86 appearances in three years, he was loaned out to Porto.
The 24-year-old spent last season on a temporary deal with Fiorentina and he would reportedly prefer to make that switch permanent.
However, Barca may find themselves offered more money for his services from the Premier League.
Last week, Spanish outlet Sport reported that Jurgen Klopp has his eyes on the winger.
Express Sport understands Klopp will be given licence to spend this summer in an effort to build a squad capable of taking Liverpool back to the Champions League.
And if it comes to a bidding war the Reds will be favourites with Saints having reportedly told Barcelona they can only do a structured deal for the player.
Source: Daily Express
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