This article is part of Football FanCast's Transfer Focus series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent transfer news...

According to Sky Sports, Southampton have been offered the chance to sign New York Red Bulls centre-back Aaron Long.

What's the word, then?

Well, the 14-cap USA international was close to joining West Ham back in the summer, although the 27-year-old could not get a work permit at the time.

That situation has since changed, as Long now qualifies for one due to his consistent appearances for the USA national team.

French giants Marseille are also said to be interested in the 6 foot 1 centre-back, who is believed to have a $6m (£4.6m) release clause in his contract with the New York Red Bulls.

New York Red Bulls head coach Chris Armas had this to say when speaking about Long in this feature piece.

"He can play in almost any league in the world. But what we need is another club out there to see his value and come in strong with an offer that makes sense to our club. … We’re not going to just give away our best players."

Isn't what Southampton need, nor is he what Ralph Hasenhuttl wants

Just by looking at the Saints' backline so far this season, there really isn't a standout name within the defence that will get the rest of them organised, nor do any of them look like the commanding, dominant type.

That much is evidenced in the numbers. Hasenhuttl's side have conceded the most goals in the Premier League this terms with 29 in just 12 games, with nine of those coming in one game against Leicester last month.

To further weaken Long's case as a potential signing for Southampton, there shouldn't really be much faith in a 27-year-old who has never played his football outside of Major League Soccer to arrive in the Premier League and transform the worst defensive side.

Newcastle's Miguel Almiron was one of the best players in Major League Soccer, but is yet to even score or assist since his £20m move to England - that just shows the difference between the two divisions.

Additionally, a recent report from The Mirror (print version, 12 November, page 53) revealed that Hasenhuttl wants a 'top quality' centre-back in the January transfer window, and due to the aforementioned reasons, Long really doesn't appear to be the marquee name that the former RB Leipzig boss is crying out for.