According to Sky Sports' transfer centre, via the Daily Star, Southampton will have to pay £35m to sign reported target Andy Carroll from West Ham United this month.

What's the word, then?

Well, The Sun reported on January 4 that Saints – along with Premier League rivals Chelsea – were keen on a deal for the 28-year-old, with the Blues said to want to bring the centre-forward to Stamford Bridge on loan for the rest of the season to provide cover for Alvaro Morata.

However, Sky Sports' transfer centre, via the Daily Star, report that the Irons are bemused by their London rivals' attempts to sign the former Newcastle and Liverpool man on a short-term basis, and they are only willing to let him go before January 31 if their £35m valuation is met.

The Telegraph reported on Monday that West Ham are worried that Carroll could force a move to the Premier League holders, but it remains to be seen whether he would feel the same about a switch to Southampton.

How has Carroll done this season?

It has been yet another injury-hit campaign for the 28-year-old, who has scored two goals and provided a further assist in 12 Premier League appearances, while he was also suspended for one game following a first-half red card against Burnley.

According to WhoScored.com, the 6ft 3in centre-forward has once again shown his strength in the air by winning 70 of the 118 aerial duels he has faced in the top flight this term.

Would he be a good signing for Southampton?

If he could get himself fit he certainly would be, as he would be the target man they have been missing since Graziano Pelle left in 2016.

His quality in the air and the problems he provides defenders with would certainly be useful in Saints' battle to avoid the drop, but there is no way they would be willing to pay £35m for an injury-hit 28-year-old who will likely have little re-sale value.

What's the verdict, then?

Well, Southampton probably would have only ever considered a move for Carroll if they could get him on loan, and with that option gone it seems likely they will switch their attentions elsewhere having been heavily linked with Monaco's Guido Carrillo.

https://video.footballfancast.com/video-2015/january-window.mp4