[ad_pod ]

Sampdoria have joined the scramble for misfiring Southampton striker Manolo Gabbiadini, per the Daily Mail. The striker has fallen behind Danny Ings and Charlie Austin in the club's pecking order, and a number of clubs want to sign him in January.

What's the word?

The report claims that the Serie A club have tabled a loan bid for the striker, with a view to a permanent transfer that will be worth £10.75million.

However, Real Betis are also interested in his services, as well as those of West Ham striker Lucas Perez.

Sky Sports claim that AC Milan and Fiorentina have also entered into talks with Southampton regarding Gabbiadini, and it appears that the striker is poised to leave the Saints.

Indeed, Gabbiadini has scored just once this season, though he has completed the 90 minutes only twice.

Surplus to requirements

Southampton appear relaxed about the prospect of Gabbiadini leaving the club, and it is unsurprising.

First-choice striker Danny Ings has scored eight goals this season, while winger Nathan Redmond has found a scoring touch, hitting the back of the net four times. Charlie Austin and Stuart Armstrong, too, have scored three apiece.

They will not need to recruit a direct replacement, then, should the Italian leave the club.

The 6 foot 1 attacker is already struggling for game time, and his departure would merely see him removed from the wage bill.

That money, of course, can be reinvested, but there is no pressing need to do so, giving new manager Ralph Hassenhuttl the luxury of choice in the transfer market.

American Soccer Fan is back! You should check out the video below but Southampton fans should look away now...