Southampton striker Michael Obafemi has been linked with a move away from St Mary's recently and Ralph Hasenhuttl should seize this opportunity to sell him.

What's the word?

According to talkSPORT journalist Alex Crook, Southampton are keen to get a deal done with Blackburn Rovers to sell the 21-year-old forward, although Fulham and AFC Bournemouth are also reportedly showing an interest.

Crook also claims that the Saints value him at around £5m, so it would not be a surprise to see him depart St Mary's on a permanent deal should any side match that valuation, and after the Saints poached Adam Armstrong from Rovers, the Lancashire side might well look towards Obafemi as his replacement.

Should Southampton sell Obafemi?

Although he produced some impressive performances in pre-season, the additions of Armstrong and Armando Broja, as well as the excitement surrounding fellow youngster Nathan Tella, suggests that Obafemi is unlikely to be a regular in Hasenhuttl's first-team this season.

The Republic of Ireland U'21 international has managed five goals and four assists in 38 appearances for Southampton but managed just 57 minutes of Premier League action last season, whilst his contract is also set to expire at the end of this season, so it would make a lot of sense to sell him.

Hasenhuttl has criticised Obafemi's attitude in the past, saying:

"He still has a lack of professionalism in his whole life. This is a young guy who must learn quickly.

"If he does this and gets more physical, fit and can make this workload for a longer time, then he has a big future. There is still a long way to go for him."

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This, as well as a lack of first-team appearances and an injury last season, has significantly decreased the excitement from Saints fans surrounding the young striker, so it seems as if selling him permanently would benefit all parties, so Hasenhuttl should take advantage of the interest being shown in him and ensure he leaves St Mary's this summer.

And, in other news... Semmens should seal Saints deal for centre-back tipped to "explode"