According to reports in The Mirror's live transfer blog at 17:53 on December 13, Southampton are leading the chase for Eibar midfielder Dani Garcia, although they could face competition from La Liga sides Athletic Bilbao, Real Betis and Malaga for his signature.
What's the word, then?
Well, The Mirror's live transfer blog says that the 27-year-old attacker has rejected an offer to extend his deal with the La Liga outfit, which is due to run out next summer.
The Eibar captain will be able to sign a pre-contract agreement with Southampton during the January transfer window if he wanted to, which would allow the south coast outfit to bring him in on a free next summer.
The Mirror's live transfer blog says that despite the interest from a number of Spanish clubs, the player is said to favour a move to the Premier League.
How has Garcia performed this season?
He has been very good.
The 27-year-old has played in all but two of Eibar's 15 La Liga games this term, and has helped them take 10 points from the last 12 available following a disappointing start to the campaign.
The skipper, who can play in both a central or defensive midfield role, has shown his tenacity, aggression and perhaps also a lack of discipline by picking up seven bookings already during the current campaign.
According to Squawka, Garcia has won 25 of the 71 tackles he has attempted, while he has won 13 of the 23 aerial duels he has faced.
His record of 37 interceptions in 13 leagues matches is impressive, while he has also made 12 clearances.
Would he be a good signing for Southampton?
If they could get him on a free transfer you would probably say yes, but do they really need him?
The middle of the park looks to be where the south coast outfit are perhaps strongest right now, as they have the likes of Oriol Romeu, Mario Lemina, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Steven Davis and James Ward-Prowse available to play in the central midfield roles.
Bringing Garcia to St Mary’s would be strange in that respect, and strengthening their attacking options should be the priority in the New Year.
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