Southampton are continuing to be linked with Benfica striker Goncalo Ramos this summer and the Portuguese could be the final piece of the puzzle in Ralph Hasenhuttl's side.

What's the word?

Southampton are one of several Premier League teams to be credited with an interest in the 21-year-old forward, who has started the season in sensational form for Benfica, hitting five goals and contributing three assists in his opening five appearances.

In a recent interview with GIVEMESPORT, journalist Ryan Taylor shared his thoughts on the Saints' interest in the young £25m striker, saying:

"I think it’s clear that Southampton are serious about that deal.

“From what we saw on The Athletic, I think a club delegate flew out to Denmark ahead of their Champions League game to speak with Benfica.

“At the moment, Southampton are a striker short. I think that’s the exact kind of profile they’ll want.”

Hasenhuttl needs him

Although Southampton picked up their first win of the season last weekend, with Che Adams hitting an impressive brace in the 2-1 win at Leicester, it seems clear that Hasenhuttl needs attacking reinforcements before the transfer window closes.

Armando Broja returned to Chelsea after a strong nine-goal loan spell at St Mary's last season, while Shane Long was released, which has limited the Austrian's options up front.

Sekou Mara has arrived from Bordeaux and provided a superb assist in the draw against Leeds, but it would be unwise to rely on the 20-year-old as a regular goalscorer in his debut season at the club.

Adams has failed to hit double figures in each of his last three Premier League campaigns, so if Southampton are to distance themselves from the bottom three this season, they arguably need a striker who can take his chances.

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Ramos has shown in his time at Benfica that he knows where the back of the net is, achieving "outrageous" numbers - in the words of scout Jacek Kulig - for the academy sides, where he managed an impressive 27 goals in 55 appearances.

His start to the season emphasises that he is more than ready for senior football, finding the net five times in as many games, as well as registering three assists so would certainly fit into Southampton's model of signing younger players this summer. As a result, Hasenhuttl should definitely look to bring Ramos to St Mary's ahead of the transfer deadline next week.