Southampton are being linked with Barcelona left-back Junior Firpo ahead of the summer transfer window and he could be a superb addition to Ralph Hasenhuttl's side should he make the move to St Mary's.

What's the word?

According to ESPN, Southampton have asked about Firpo's situation at Barcelona as they see him as a potential successor for Ryan Bertrand at St Mary's, although they will have to see off interest from several Serie A clubs if they are going to sign him this summer.

Barcelona are preparing for a summer rebuild and since the 24-year-old has been unable to oust Jordi Alba at the Nou Camp during his time at the club, he is a likely candidate to be sold.

Would he be a good signing?

Firpo was regarded as one of the best young defenders in La Liga during his time with Real Betis, with his excellent performances in the 2017/18 and 2018/19 seasons convincing Barcelona to pay €18m (£16.3m) to sign him in the summer of 2019.

Unfortunately for the Spanish defender, his time with the Catalan club has not really worked out, as he has made just 41 appearances in the two years since, contributing two goals and three assists.

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This season saw the Dominican Republic born defender make just three starts in La Liga and one in the Champions League, so it is no surprise that Ronald Koeman is keen to cash in on him this summer, and Southampton could be the ones to take advantage.

Barcelona legend Eric Abidal was full of praise for Firpo back in 2020, saying:

"He's a player with a lot of potential. He could be one of the best left-backs in the world. I always tell him that he must work hard and be aware of the (style of) play. He's going to get better, for sure."

This is high praise from one of the best left-backs from the past 20 years, so if Firpo can live up to his potential at St Mary's, he would surely prove to be a very good signing indeed.

Therefore, Martin Semmens should definitely look to sign him for Southampton this summer, as Hasenhuttl desperately needs a left-back to replace Bertrand this summer, and Firpo could be the ideal man for the job.

And, in other news... Semmens can repeat Armstrong masterclass with bargain swoop for "top player"