Southampton have been handed a potential boost in their pursuit of Joakim Maehle, with Forza Italian Football editor Conor Clancy claiming the full-back is up for sale at Atalanta, with Saints reportedly making an approach earlier this summer.

Maehle only joined the Serie A club from Belgian outfit Genk in January and went on to make 25 appearances as the Italians booked a place in the upcoming season's Champions League.

However, it appears Atalanta are already looking to cash in on the 24-year-old after impressing at Euro 2020.

Despite featuring predominantly at right-back for Atalanta, Maehle shone on the left side of Denmark's defence and showcased his attacking qualities by scoring two goals and adding an assist as he played every minute of his country's run to the semi-finals of the competition.

Southampton have been long-term admirers of Maehle, according to Danish media outlet Ekstra Bladet. The report reveals Crystal Palace, Fiorentina, Sevilla and Valencia were also in the hunt for Maehle before Atalanta made their move.

But Clancy feels Saints could finally get their man before the transfer window closes.

He told Football FanCast: "Everyone at Atalanta is for sale. That's just how they work every summer.

"Maehle is not a starter on the left or the right at Atalanta. He showed some flashes of the player we saw at Euro 2020 early on at Atalanta, but then it didn't quite happen for him.

"If a club wants Maehle, they can sign him. Everyone who saw the Euros knows Southampton would be getting a very good player if they can sign him."